Jazz: The Improvisatory Spirit

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2015:

96 Hours

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Student Support and Engagement Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Overview, Learning Outcomes, Assessment and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and Student Equity and Disability Support: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/disability

Jazz: The Improvisatory Spirit examines improvisation as it has manifested itself in Jazz and other African American Music. It is focused on the spirit of improvisation and its essential nature taking into account the concepts of imagination, freedom and individual expression.

On completing this subject students will:
• have an understanding of improvisation in the broader sense and more specifically how it has evolved through Jazz music;
• have a basic understanding of the formal, rhythmic and harmonic aspects of music;
• be able to identify specific eras of Jazz music as well as the musicians that helped shape each era in Jazz history;
• be able to describe and comment upon the various philosophical and conceptual attitudes that have shaped the evolution of Jazz.

1 x 30 minute listening test: 50%

Critical appraisal of 2,000 words on improvisation as it has manifested itself in the Jazz tradition: 50%


Late submission
* Unless an extension has been granted, for essays/assignments submitted after the due date, the mark a student is awarded for their work will be reduced by 10% for each day the work is late. Using electronic submission means work may be submitted on any day.
* Unless an extension has been granted, assignments submitted later than 5 working days (or 1 week if due on a weekend) after the due date will not be marked, and will receive no marks.

Hurdle requirements: Students must attend 80% of all scheduled classes and attempt all elements of assessment to be eligible for a pass in this subject.

This subject potentially can be taken as a breadth subject component for the following courses:

• Bachelor of Arts
• Bachelor of Biomedicine
• Bachelor of Commerce
• Bachelor of Environments
• Bachelor of Science

You should visit learn more about breadth subjects and read the breadth requirements for your degree, and should discuss your choice with your student adviser, before deciding on your subjects.

On completing this subject students will be able to:
• demonstrate an open and independent attitude towards contemporary cultural developments;
• critically and creatively engage with topics of cultural significance across the broader community;
• understand and appreciate how the arts connect with the broader society and culture.