Jazz

Jazz at GFS is a journey into the world of musical improvisation under the direction of Jeff Torchon. The Jazz curriculum at GFS is a creative, performance based study steeped in the history of the jazz movement.

Jazz music is one of our country’s greatest cultural achievements.  It is born of the melting pot of musical textures that were brewing in our country at the turn of the 20th century.  The study of jazz performance is rich with the history that produced it, and provides a mindful medium for a different harmonic texture, improvisation, collaborative spirit, and solo opportunities.

Our jazz program begins in Lower School, under the direction of Debbie Stahl.  This ensemble develops the beginning steps of understanding chord structure and progression, solo techniques and jazz music standards.   Members meet once a week after school, and play age appropriate repertoire that teaches them invaluable ensemble skills, as well as community building tools.

In Middle School, jazz musicians combine talents once a week.  Students expand their knowledge of soloing structure, ensemble balance, and chart reading skills.  Students are encouraged to support their peers in their solo opportunities, which builds a sense of trust within the ensemble.


In Upper School, students’ knowledge of jazz history deepens with the study of different jazz styles, from standard New Orleans to Cuban to funk.   Musicians are able to produce a more developed sound with the study of articulation, balance, communication, rhythms, and musicianship.   Ensembles meet once a week, and participate in a number of daytime assemblies, and night concerts (which includes the acclaimed Jazz Night.)

 

DATE	DIVISION	EVENT	LOCATION	TIME
Nov 22	Middle/Upper	Assembly	Loeb	11:35 AM
Dec 10	Middle/Upper	Concert	Loeb	8:00 PM
Dec 13	Lower	Assembly	Poley	9:00 AM
Dec 16	Middle/Upper	Assembly	Loeb	11:20 AM
Apr 14	Middle/Upper	Jazz Night	Loeb	7:30 PM
May 23	Middle	Assembly	Loeb	10:10 AM
Jun 5	Lower	Assembly	Poley	9:00 AM