Swing University Spring 2019 Schedule

Miles Davis

Taught by Marcus Printup

4 nights: April 1, 8, 22, 29
6:30–8:30pm
Irene Diamond Education Center (IDEC)
$115.00

One of Jazz’s most extraordinary figures, and one of music’s most endlessly innovative musicians, Miles Davis all-but invented multiple genres of the music. Learn more about this brilliant figure of Jazz in a course taught by JLCO trumpet master Marcus Printup!

 


Jazz 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Jazz

Taught by Seton Hawkins

8 nights: April 2, 9, 23, 30, May 14, 21, 28, June 4
6:30-8:30pm
Irene Diamond Education Center (IDEC)
$226.00

Do you love jazz and want to learn more about it? Join us for one of today’s best introductions to our nation’s greatest art form! In Jazz 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Jazz, we’ll help you develop your ears to hear the many details and intricacies that make this music so endlessly fascinating and guide you through the history and development of the styles. Instructor and Swing University curator Seton Hawkins will provide your introduction to jazz; no musical knowledge is required.

The Art & Science of Improvisation

Taught by Greg Thomas

6 nights: April 4, 11, 18, May 2, 16, 23
6:30–8:30pm
Irene Diamond Education Center (IDEC)
$150.00

The lifeblood of jazz music, creative improvisation is a thrilling practice of human communication and interaction in a wide range of fields, from literature to dance and architecture. But does improvisation play a role in nature, life, consciousness, and the evolution of the universe too? These are just a few of the themes of our exciting journey into the beating heart of improvisation. Host Greg Thomas and a special roster of guests (Benny Golson, Vijay Iyer, and other leading lights) will explore the wonder of improvisation through the portals of music, theatrical and comedy improv, physics and evolutionary biology.


Jazz 301: An Expert’s Guide to Jazz

Taught by Ben Young

8 nights: May 15, 22, 29, June 5, 12, 19, 26 OPTIONAL EXAM June 27
6:30–8:30pm
Irene Diamond Education Center (IDEC)
$226.00

Jazz 301 is the most advanced jazz survey course in the world and provides students with detailed and nuanced insights into all aspects of the music’s history. Students in 301 may choose to take an optional final exam; those who pass are presented with a certificate signed by our Artistic Director Wynton Marsalis acknowledging the recipient’s exceptional scholarship. Many have used this document for academic credit and career advancement.

Read Ben Young’s biography


Birds of Fire:  Jazz-Rock Fusion

Taught by Seton Hawkins

4 nights: May 28, June 4, 11, 18
6:30–8:30pm
Irene Diamond Education Center (IDEC)
$115.00

Jimi Hendrix, Miles Davis, John McLaughlin, Chicago Transit Authority, Cream, Weather Report. You know the names, you love the music; join us as we explore the roots and development of Jazz-Rock Fusion!