Study of the development of jazz from its origins to current trends, including stylistic periods such as New Orleans, swing, bop, cool, avant-garde, and fusion. Emphasis on evolution of form, improvisational style, and influential artists.

Two lectures per week. A unified approach to beginning piano study. Skill development in reading music, harmonizing simple tunes, and improvising and transposing. Learning of simple solo and ensemble pieces as well as developing a good technical approach to the keyboard.

The role of music, including its basic elements, forms, styles, and media, in major compositions of representative composers of each major period. Interactive lectures, performance demonstrations, concerts, listening, and participation. No prior musical experience required.