Jazz Expressions is dedicated to educating young audiences, sharing their love of jazz and the playful art ot improvisation. Their experience, professionalism and upbeat approach makes for a memorable presentation. The program begins by comparing current popular musical styles to jazz. Students are asked to compare and contrast the musical forms and give their notions as to what Jazz is. Young people are introduced to the concept of improvisation and its playful quality.
Students participate in acting improvs which expand into improvisation of song lyric.
The ensemble then demonstrates instrumental improvisation. From Spiritual and Blues to Ragtime and Dixieland, young people will hear how the roots of this American art form developed. Students will be asked to physically experience the sensation of swing. Students will explore the role of each instrument in the ensemble as the musicians demonstrate. The importance of audience attention and etiquette will be discussed.