Jazz
Certificate of Achievement Music · Laney College · 2026-2027 Catalog
The Jazz Certificate of Achievement recognizes mastery of Jazz essential. 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 an associate degree.
Career Opportunities
Music teacher, performer, recording artist, promoter, arts management, arts administration.
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 style (Jazz history), 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 one unit from the following (1 unit): | 1 | |
| MUSIC 138 | Jazz Piano I | 1 |
| MUSIC 139 | Jazz Piano II | 1 |
| MUSIC 140 | Jazz Piano III | 1 |
| MUSIC 141 | Jazz Piano IV | 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 |
| MUSIC 226 | Jazz Orchestra Repertoire | 1 |
| Total Units: | 11 | |