Approaches analysis from a theoretical as well as a practical perspective. Explores the use of rhythm, chords, scales, and modes in the creative improvisation process. Investigates the hypotheses about the origins of African-American English as well as arguments about the relation of the dialect to English and other languages. Considers issues regarding the use of the dialect in schools. Students are drawn from all segments of the University.
Repertory is taken from the standard jazz literature as well as investigations of new works.
Improvisational and interpretational technique are the core content of the course. Both the NU Band and the NU Jazz Combo are represented together in this course. AFR 1235 Black History of Boston 4 QH Examines the social, economic, political, and educational history of Boston's black community in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. The development of the black community and its institutions is a major focus, and students are encouraged to study the past in an attempt to understand the present and interpret the future. Research data include participant observation, oral history, interviews, and primary and secondary source materials.