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Jazz Appreciation Concert Report Guidelines

General suggestions:

• Each student is required to attend and review a pre-approved live jazz performance during the semester.
• An appropriate length for a college level report would be 2-3 pages typed (with standard spacing and font-as represented on this page).
• Create a simple, clear, basic essay (theme) or answer the questions (below) by restating them and typing the appropriate information in response.
• If one chooses an essay style, one would begin with a clear thesis statement that is easily supported with factual research (not only personal opinion).
• In either format, organize statements into a logical, sequential flow.
• Consider using balanced statements for comparison (Comparison to recorded performances studied in class are excellent for this reference.)
• Support arguments with factual research and concrete documentation where appropriate (The text is useful for these references.)
• The instructor is looking for the student's ability to communicate concepts and to include (at least) the required information.
• Covering the minimum requirements does not constitute an "A".
• Original creative thought or perspective may constitute the grounds for an "A" if the ideas are well supported.
• Use standard written English (avoid slang and conversational terms).
• Use proper punctuation and grammar.
• Avoid first person references ("I") and personal opinion (except in the conclusion).

General things to include:

• Where did the performance take place? (Where was the album recorded?)
• Who performed? (List the personnel.)
• What was the instrumentation?
• How was the music presented? (in a refined concert setting or sloppily in a bar setting)
• Did the music make you respond intellectually, emotionally, and physically?
• Pick one composition from the concert (or album):
• Describe the melody (smooth and flowing, jagged and disjointed, etc.).
• Describe the harmony (textures, complexities, etc.).
• Describe the rhythm (steady, broken, exciting, etc.).
• Do these elements compare to any of the compositions you have studied?
• Create a map of the composition (showing the sequence of events).
• Describe one player's solo in detail (How was his character revealed? How did it develop?).
• Does this player's solo style compare to any of the musicians you have studied?
• Describe that soloists tone quality and use of other storytelling devices.

In conclusion:

• What did you like about this composition as a whole? (First person statements are appropriate here as a conclusion.)
• What did you not like about this composition as a whole? (First person statements are appropriate here as a conclusion.)
• What is the significance of this (spontaneously created art) music in relation to our current culture? What connection or role does it have to you or society?