Garfield High School – Jazz Band A/B

Mar 2026 · 2nd Semester

Jazz Band is a year-long performing ensemble with traditional wind and rhythm section instrumentation. Students enrolled in Jazz Band are expected to participate in all Jazz Band activities during or outside the normal school day, including participation in festivals and trips. Students take the skills and concepts learned in band ensembles and apply them to beginning to intermediate jazz music literature. Students learn and grow as musicians as they increase their individual musicianship and skills as a member of a jazz performing ensemble. Students gain experiences performing jazz in its various styles with its foundation in the concepts of swing. If students cannot acquire their own equipment, equipment will be provided for them. Jazz Band may be repeated for credit. Semesters 1-2: Students learn proper rehearsal skills, performance etiquette and demonstrate proper playing technique on their chosen instrument. Students are introduced to the basic concepts of swing and become fluent in performing appropriate articulation and nuance of swing 8th-notes and quarter notes. The ensemble is introduced to the concepts necessary to perform in various styles including Medium Swing, Latin, Ballad, and Up-tempo Swing. Students develop their individual musicianship and technical skills and their understanding of their role within the jazz ensemble. Students learn the basic concepts necessary to perform an improvised jazz solo. Students may receive CTE credit after fulfilling all Fine Arts credit requirements. This course may be repeated for credit. This course is auditioned. This course meets before school every day. Students must also be enrolled in an ensemble class during the school day.