Guidelines for Jazz Piano Principals
Prospective music majors whose principal instrument is jazz piano should prepare an audition program of 2 contrasting pieces, drawn from jazz, gospel, blues, or pop piano styles demonstrating a knowledge of various 7th chords and some melodic improvisation ability. Permission to register for lessons at the MUPR 2227 or above depends on passing an audition, and subsequently passing juries (performance study examinations).
The student should be able to read chord changes (both hands) of a simple chord chart of M7, mi7, dom7, and mi7 (flat 5) chords, and should also be able to play 4 octave scales in the keys of C, F, G, D, and A major. In addition, the student should demonstrate the ability to read and prepare music at or above the level achieved by receiving a grade of “B” in MUAP 1264 “Class Piano 2.”
A list of suggested pieces to meet the minimum repertoire standard in jazz piano is available upon request from Mr. Tom Cox. He can be reached at 569-3294, or by e-mail at tcoxjazz_2006@yahoo.com
Students who wish to take jazz piano lessons for elective credit or as music minors also have a pre-requisite of the ability to read and prepare music at or above the level achieved by receiving a grade of “B” in MUAP 1264 “Class Piano 2.” The ability to read music in treble and bass clef fluently, and facility with playing scales, chord progressions and arpeggios is essential for the study of jazz piano. The ability to play by ear to improvise is one part of the equation. Music literacy is another essential part.
COURSE NUMBERS FOR JAZZ PIANO STUDY (MUPR)
1227 = Minor or Elective Study, repeatable as often as desired.
2227 = 1st Year Jazz Piano Principal for Music Major, or minor or elective student with equivalent skill level in piano technique and repertoire, 2 semesters. By audition only.
3227 = 2nd Year Major Study, or minor or elective student with equivalent skill level in piano technique and repertoire, 2 semesters. By passing jury for MUPR 2227 only.
4227 = Optional 3rd Year Major Study, 2 semesters. By passing jury for MUPR 3227 only. (May be repeated for a 4th year if desired.)
BA music majors in jazz piano must complete 8 credit hours of applied study, at least 4 hours each of MUPR 2227 and 3227. In addition, BA music majors must perform at least once per year in Student Recital Hour.
Electives: All beginners will be placed in Class Piano I (MUAP 1214). Only non-beginner elective students or music minors should register for MUPR 1227 after consulting with the instructor.