Westminster Conservatory, the community music school of Westminster Choir College of Rider University, has expanded its jazz program to include two new jazz ensembles, as well as studies in the area of jazz history, theory and improvisation.
Beginning Sept. 11, the conservatory will offer two new ensembles at its Princeton location, Jazz Combo and Westminster Big Band. Auditions for both will be held on Wednesday, Sept. 8, or by appointment. To schedule an audition, call Westminster Conservatory at (609) 921-7104.
Jazz Combo is open to students grade 6 through adult. Participants will focus on improvisation and group interaction. Members will rehearse jazz standards and blues, learning to read and interpret lead sheets and chord symbols. They will present a performance in the spring.
Westminster Big Band is open to students grade 9 through adult. Participants will rehearse and perform in a big band, playing well-known compositions from the swing era and beyond. Advanced members will have the opportunity to perform improvised solos. The ensemble will also present a performance in the spring.
In addition to the ensemble, the new program will feature several classes in jazz history and jazz theory for students grade 9 through adult. Classes will include a survey of jazz history and jazz theory and improvisation.
The program will be led by Edward Taylor, a member of the conservatory’s faculty since 1998, and an active jazz drummer who performs and records with several groups.
For a 2004-2005 catalog, call the conservatory at (609) 921-7104.
