Jazz, Rock & World Music

Jazz Ensembles

In addition to the ensembles listed below, NMS will work to create individualized instrumental combos for students whose needs can not be met in these pre-organized groups. All ensembles perform each semester in the Jazz Department recital. Jazz ensemble placements are made by the jazz studies coordinator in conjunction with the ensemble program head.

For more information, please contact:

Jesse Hameen II, Jazz Studies coordinator
203-624-5189 x52 or jhameen@neighborhoodmusicschool.org

Jazz Ensemble Rates

Based on 60-minute session, 14 weeks per semester.
3 players
With NMS private lesson: $325
All others: $420

4 or more players
With NMS private lesson: $285
All others: $385

Ensemble Discount:

Students taking three (3) or more ensembles receive 50 percent off the cost of the third and any additional ensembles. Discount applies to the least expensive ensemble(s).

Jazz Ensemble Descriptions

Intro to Jazz Ensemble

Ages 13 - adult. Ensemble is open to all instruments and focuses on developing basic jazz skills, theory and improvisation. Some directed listening of jazz recordings and brief discussion of the historical perspective of the repertoire also included. Prerequisite: 3 years private instruction or permission of instructor.

Day/Time	Coach
Tuesday 7:30-8:30 pm	Bill Fluker

Jazz Rock Ensemble

Ages 13 - adult. This ensemble is for intermediate students with at least 3 years of study and basic improvisational skills. The group will study and perform the works of Herbie Hancock, Lee Morgan, Grover Washington Jr. and other artists of this genre.

Day/Time	Coach
Tuesday 8:30-9:30	Bill Fluker

Jazz Standards Ensemble

Intermediate and advanced teens and adults. These ensembles explore the art and techniques of performing repertoire in the different genres of jazz.

Day/Time	Coach
Tuesday 6:00-7:00 pm	Mike Asetta (Intermediate)
Tuesday 7:00-8:00 pm	Mike Asetta (Advanced)

Blues Ensemble

Ages 13 - adult. Learn to play a variety of music influenced by traditional blues, straight blues, jazz and rock.

Day/Time	Coach
Wednesday 6:30-7:30 pm	Jesse Hameen II

Latin Jazz Ensemble

Ages 13 - adult. Explore the Afro-Cuban and Brazilian claves and rhythms of Latin Jazz such as Son, Rhumba and Montuno.

Day/Time	Coach
Wednesday 7:30-8:30 pm	Jesse Hameen II

The NMS Ragtime Stompers

Ages 16 - adult. The Stompers perform classic jazz, traditional blues and ragtime styles, mostly from the first half of the 20th century, using written arrangements. Improvisation is welcome and encouraged but not required. The goup performas in the NMS Jazz Program recitals and occasional outside engagements.

Day/Time	Coach
Monday 11:30 am-12:30 pm	Art Hovey

Rock Ensembles

All Ages. This offering is both a class and a performing ensemble that explores classic and contemporary approaches to rock music, ranging from Buddy Holly to U2 to Metallica. Chart reading and improvisational techniques will be addressed. All instrumentalists and vocalists are welcome. A minimum of 2 years of instrumental or vocal experience is recommended. Instructor will contact students to discuss ensemble placement and time schedule.

Rock Ensemble Rates

Based on 90-minute session, 14 weeks per semester.
3 players
With NMS Individual Instruction: $425
All Others: $525

4 or more players
With NMS Individual Instruction: $395
All Others: $495

Ensemble Discount:

Students taking three (3) or more ensembles receive 50 percent off the cost of the third and any additional ensembles. Discount applies to the least expensive ensemble(s).

World Music

Steel Bands

Ages 10 - adult. From Bach to Calypso, from rap to reggae, enjoy the magic of steel pans, the 20th century musical phenomenon from the Caribbean! Ensembles meet on Monday nights. Instructor will contact student for ensemble placement.
Prerequisite: One semester of private instruction.

Day/Time	Coach
Monday 5:45-6:45 pm	Debby Teason
Monday 6:45-7:45 pm	Debby Teason
Monday 7:45-8:45 pm	Debby Teason

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