Course Catalogue

The Jazz Performer (Pre-Hons) MUSIC2030

  • Academic Session: 2026-27
  • School: School of Culture and Creative Arts
  • Credits: 20
  • Level: Level 2 (SCQF level 8)
  • Typically Offered: Full Year
  • Available to Visiting Students: Yes
  • Collaborative Online International Learning: No
  • Curriculum For Life: No

Short Description

This course examines the historical emergence of jazz style, as well as introducing and developing essential skills in jazz performance and transcription. This includes providing students with an opportunity to perform in a jazz combo setting; to observe, analyse and transcribe recorded jazz performances; and to engage critical perspectives on jazz performance as a distinct practice, as well as an aspect of culture and society.

Timetable

10 x 1 hr Lecture over 20 weeks as scheduled on MyCampus

10 x 1 hr Tutorial over 20 weeks as scheduled on MyCampus

5 x 2 hour workshops over 20 weeks as scheduled on MyCampus

Requirements of Entry

None

Excluded Courses

MUSIC4105 The Jazz Performer (Hons)

Co-requisites

None

Assessment

 The standard assessments for this course are: 

■ Transcription and Observation (c. 1 minute transcription and 750 words) - 40% 

■ Performance and Reflective Diary (c. 2 minutes and 750 words) - 60% 

 

If required, for instance where a disability prevents a student from undertaking a specific method of assessment, the following alternatives are available: 

■ There are no alternatives to the Transcription Observation, but extensions/extra time to the deadline can be offered as reasonable adjustment (Students should follow the usual process for extensions). 

■ An adapted or alternative performing space, reduced audience or asynchronous recorded performance can be completed as an alternative to the performance.

 

Further reasonable adjustments may be provided where necessary. Students are encouraged to consult with the course convenor.  

Main Assessment In: April/May

Course Aims

This course aims to:

■ Provide students with an opportunity to examine the global histories, repertoires and styles of jazz performance;

■ engender an awareness of jazz ethics and performance practice;

■ develop students' ability to perform and improvise in a jazz style;

■ allow students to collaborate with other musicians in a group performance setting.

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

By the end of this course students will be able to:

■ Discern the primary aspects of jazz history, repertoire and style;

■ understand how jazz is typically performed, including a sense of jazz ethics;

■ collaborate in jazz performance, including improvising in a jazz style according to their performance abilities;

■ apply practical approaches to performance.

Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits

No exceptions