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  3. Arranging for Large Jazz Ensemble

Arranging for Large Jazz Ensemble (MUSI30287)

Undergraduate level 3Points: 6.25On Campus (Southbank)

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Overview

Availability
Semester 2
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This subject teaches students to arrange for large jazz ensembles, including conventional big band instrumentation and variations.

Through directed listening, score analysis and targeted exercises, students explore the arranging concepts of form, instrumental range, blend, voicing techniques, rhythm section writing and score/part preparation using notation software.

Students attend weekly interactive workshops. Assessment includes the creation of a score and individual parts of an arrangement and an in-class presentation in collaboration with their peers.

Intended learning outcomes

On completion of this subject, students should be able to:

  • apply individual musical ideas and working methods to arrangements;
  • develop arrangement ideas through listening, practice and experimentation;
  • write idiomatically and creatively for large jazz ensembles;
  • communicate effectively with performers through professionally presented music notation;
  • work collaboratively with performers and peers on the presentation of their music;
  • analyse, contextualise and critique their own arrangement ideas through an understanding of large jazz ensemble writing conventions and repertoire.

Generic skills

On completion of this subject, students should be able to:

  • develop and implement innovative and creative ideas;
  • employ a wide range of idea creation techniques;
  • respond openly and imaginatively to new ideas;
  • articulate, integrate and adapt knowledge from different domains;
  • give and receive constructive feedback;
  • integrate personal reflection into the creative process;
  • make effective use of planning skills.

Last updated: 4 March 2025