History and Repertoire
Credit value: 20
You’ll explore jazz’s roots and evolution through three areas: historical study, repertoire analysis, and creative application. You’ll analyse landmark works, rethink jazz traditions, and use that insight in your own compositions and performances. This module builds your ability to research, reflect, and apply your findings musically—whether through essays, performances, or creative projects that demonstrate a deep understanding of the genre’s cultural and theoretical dimensions.
This module is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, and practical workshops. Assessment includes a research essay.
Learning and teaching hours: 25 (12.5%)
Directed study hours: 175 (87.5%)
Introduction to Jazz Performance
Credit value: 20
You’ll develop essential performance skills, building your jazz vocabulary, tone, improvisation, and ensemble communication. Working closely with your tutor, you’ll sharpen techniques like sight-reading, intonation, and memorisation. The module emphasises body language, stage presence, and aural development, while helping you build healthy practice habits and a personal performance style. You'll also explore reflective tools to support your growth as a jazz musician.
This module is delivered through a combination of lectures, ensemble workshops, and instrument specific lessons. Assessment includes an instrument performance.
Learning and teaching hours: 35 (17.5%)
Directed study hours: 165 (82.5%)
Introduction to Jazz Performance 2
Credit value: 20
You’ll continue to elevate your technical and stylistic fluency through in-depth instrumental or vocal training. You’ll further develop improvisational skill, ensemble awareness, and advanced jazz language. Emphasis is placed on personal expression, stagecraft, and performance presentation. Through reflection, structured practice, and experimentation, you’ll build on your unique artistic identity and collaborative abilities.
This module is delivered through a combination of lectures, ensemble workshops, and instrument specific lessons. Assessment includes an instrument performance.
Learning and teaching hours: 25 (12.5%)
Directed study hours: 175 (87.5%)
JAT (Jazz Aural and Theory): Essential Principles
Credit value: 20
You’ll gain core musicianship skills in theory and aural training. Through practical exercises, you’ll explore harmony, rhythm, melody, and ear training—all essential for jazz performance and composition. This foundational module strengthens your confidence with notation, analysis, and listening, preparing you for deeper study in Semester 2.
This module is delivered through a combination of lectures, workshops, and seminars. Assessment includes a written theory and aural test.
Learning and teaching hours: 30 (15%)
Directed study hours: 170 (85%)
JAT (Jazz Aural and Theory): Structural Analysis
Credit value: 20
You’ll expand on your foundational theory and aural skills by exploring advanced harmonic language, rhythmic complexity, and tonal systems. This module deepens your understanding of musical structure and helps you apply theoretical insight to your own performances and compositions with greater precision and creativity.
This module is delivered through a combination of lectures, workshops, and seminars. Assessment includes an analytical essay and aural transcription.
Learning and teaching hours: 30 (15%)
Directed study hours: 170 (85%)
Musicology and Composition
Credit value: 20
You’ll investigate musicological concepts and apply them to your own jazz compositions. By analysing existing works and experimenting with harmony, form, and structure, you’ll develop a personal compositional voice. Collaborative workshops encourage experimentation and reflection, helping you merge critical thinking with creative expression.
This module is delivered through a combination of lectures and seminars. Assessment includes a small ensemble composition.
Learning and teaching hours: 30 (15%)
Directed study hours: 170 (85%)