Course Description
In this course, students will gain an understanding of how jazz works. Students will learn the distinctions (and similarities) between various sub-categories and chronological periods in jazz. They will also learn the roles of various jazz instruments and how these roles have evolved. Important topics like jazz improvisation, the rhythm section and jazz composition will be explored. Through reading and listening to jazz recordings, students will become familiar with many of the great artists of jazz, including Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Charlie Parker, Miles Davis and John Coltrane. (3 credits)
Prerequisite
- None
Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs)
Students who successfully complete this course will have a general understanding of the following:
- Identify the roles (and the evolution of the roles) of the instruments used in jazz.
- Explain the techniques and structures that govern jazz performances.
- Discuss the primary characteristics of sub-styles of jazz.
- Explain the historical/musical significance and primary contributions of important jazz musicians.
- Analyze and compare different recordings of jazz performances.
General Education Outcomes (GEOs)
Please check the applicable GEOs for this course, if any, by outcomes at GEO Category Search, or by subject area at GEO Discipline Search.
Course Activities and Grading
Assignments | Weight |
| Discussions & Cumulative Discussion Replies (Weeks 1-8) | 45% |
Written Assignments (Weeks 4 & 6) | 30% |
Final Project (Week 7) | 25% |
Total | 100% |
Required Textbooks
Available through Charter Oak State College's online bookstore
Bierman. Listening to Jazz. Second Edition. Oxford University Press, 2020. ISBN-13: 978-0-19-092590-1
Additional Requirement
- Admission to one live performance - cost depends on performance chosen (Note: Online option available for students logistically unable to attend a live performance.)
Course Schedule
Week | SLOs | Reading and Listening Assignments | Assignments |
1 | 1-5 | Topics: Jazz Basics, Origins, and Roots
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2 | 1-5 | Topics: Chicago, New York, and Kansas City Jazz
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3 | 1-5 | Topics: Duke Ellington and the Swing Era
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4 | 1-5 | Topics: Jazz Vocals and Bebop
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5 | 1-5 | Topics: Jazz in the ‘50s and ‘60s: Cool Jazz, Hard Bop, Avant-Garde and More
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6 | 1-5 | Topic: Postmodern Developments
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7 | 1-5 | Topics: Fusion, Neo-Traditionalism, and Other Contemporary Movements
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8 | 1-5 | Topic: Jazz Today
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COSC Accessibility Statement
Charter Oak State College encourages students with disabilities, including non-visible disabilities such as chronic diseases, learning disabilities, head injury, attention deficit/hyperactive disorder, or psychiatric disabilities, to discuss appropriate accommodations with the Office of Accessibility Services at OAS@charteroak.edu.
COSC Policies, Course Policies, Academic Support Services and Resources
Students are responsible for knowing all Charter Oak State College (COSC) institutional policies, course-specific policies, procedures, and available academic support services and resources. Please see COSC Policies for COSC institutional policies, and see also specific policies related to this course. See COSC Resources for information regarding available academic support services and resources.