Jazz
A.A. Degree Music · Laney College · 2026-2027 Catalog
The Jazz Associate in Arts Degree recognizes mastery of Jazz essentials. Students will examine basic Jazz theory, performance techniques, improvisation skills, and Jazz history; chord voicings, alphabet system, evolution of styles from Blues and Ragtime to the present; ensemble playing techniques including: blending, tone production, chart reading, and solo improvisation. After completing this program, students will be able to play concerts, compose music, participate in recording sessions, or continue with their studies towards a baccalaureate degree.
Career Opportunities
Performer, recording artist, arranger, composer, music teacher, promoter, arts management, arts administration, music critic, music consultant.
Program Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this program a student will be able to:
- Identify, construct, and play elements of Jazz Theory including: Chord construction, proper use of Alphabet Chord Symbols, use of Medieval church modes, diminished scales, whole tone scales, Lydian dominants, Blues scales, and melodic minor modes.
- Jazz History: Successful students will identify, explain, and analyze concepts from the history of Jazz.
- Performance: Successful students will synthesize their knowledge of style (Jazz history), theory (use of correct modes and chord voicings), and other improvisation techniques into live public performances.
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Group 1: Jazz History - (6 units): | 6 | |
| MUSIC 15A | Jazz, Blues and Popular Music in the American Culture | 3 |
| MUSIC 15B | Jazz, Blues, and Popular Music in the American Culture | 3 |
| Group 2: Jazz Piano - Select a minimum of two units from the following (2 units): | 2 | |
| MUSIC 138 | Jazz Piano I | 1 |
| MUSIC 139 | Jazz Piano II | 1 |
| MUSIC 140 | Jazz Piano III | 1 |
| MUSIC 141 | Jazz Piano IV | 1 |
| MUSIC 150 | Applied Music | 1 |
| Group 3: Jazz Ensemble Performance - Select a minimum of 4 units from the following (4 units): | 4 | |
| MUSIC 126 | Jazz Orchestra | 1 |
| MUSIC 127 | Jazz Combos | 1 |
| MUSIC 129 | Jazz Orchestra Repertoire | 1 |
| MUSIC 144 | Intermediate Jazz Combos | 1 |
| MUSIC 145 | Advanced Jazz Combos | 1 |
| MUSIC 151 | Pop Music Ensemble | 1 |
| GROUP 4: Music Theory--Select a minimum of 9 units from the following: | 9 | |
| MUSIC 104 | Music Theory and Culture IV | 3 |
| MUSIC 101 | Music Theory and Culture I | 3 |
| MUSIC 102 | Music Theory and Culture II | 3 |
| MUSIC 103 | Music Theory and Culture III | 3 |
| GROUP 5: Musicianship (Music Skills)- Select a minimum of 3 units from the following: | 3 | |
| MUSIC 124 | Music Skills IV | 1 |
| MUSIC 121 | Music Skills I | 1 |
| MUSIC 122 | Music Skills II | 1 |
| MUSIC 123 | Music Skills III | 1 |
| Total Major Units | 24 | |
| General Education Requirements | 21 | |
| Electives to meet 60 units | ||
| Total Units: | 60 | |