The Jazzschool: Winter '07 Classes and Programs

The Winter 2007 Jazzschool catalog highlights an extraordinary array of classes, workshops, and programs for students of all levels, from beginner to professional, for the new quarter running from January 16 thru April 1. “The Jazzschool is dedicated to creating 'tailor-made,' tangible opportunities for its students to refine their craft, express themselves artistically, and simply enhance their everyday lives in the classroom and on the stage," says Executive Director Susan Muscarella, who founded the Jazzschool in 1997.

Vocalist Madeline Eastman and Grammy-nominated pianist Taylor Eigsti, named Jazzschool Artists in Residence in the fall quarter, will continue in that role throughout 2007, conducting specialized workshops and master classes. “These two brilliant artists exemplify the standard of excellence we all strive to reach at the Jazzschool," says Muscarella.

Muscarella is pleased to announce a new affiliation with Tokyo's Muse Academy of Music, one of the largest and oldest music schools in Japan. “After more than a year's worth of careful planning, we will welcome Muse President Matsubara, Head Drum Instructor Scott Latham, and their students to the Jazzschool to study with Jazzschool Faculty this winter," says Muscarella. “We will enroll students from Muse and have direct contact with one of the only music schools officially recognized by the Japanese government." On February 23, Muse students and friends will present a concert and jam session at the Jazzschool.

This quarter vocal students can partake of a rich curriculum devised by Laurie Antonioli, Chair of the Vocal Program, including a workshop given by Bobby McFerrin (made possible by the UCB Chancellor's Partnership Fund); a lecture and demonstration by Kurt Elling on the Craft of Jazz Singing; Introduction to Indian Singing, with Ann Dyer; and A Beautiful Friendship, co-taught by Antonioli and guitarist Mimi Fox. A new Sunday series, “A Month of Sundays," will feature Ledisi and Kitty Margolis.

The Jazzschool Middle School Project, an after-school music study and performance program launched in the fall, continues under the direction of program coordinator Rob Ewing and with generous support from Jazzschool Board Member Gregg Perloff, CEO of Another Planet Entertainment. Students in this yearlong program take twice-weekly classes in jazz theory, improvisation, and history as well as a range of styles of performance ensembles.

A PDF version of the Jazzschool Winter 2007 catalog may be downloaded from the school's web site (click the link below). For a hard copy, please write [email protected].