Jazz Lab

 PUTTING PRACTICE INTO PLAY!

Jazz Lab is a special component of the AAMI curriculum.  The ensemble consists of students from AAMI who excel on their particular instrument. The ensemble provides performance opportunities for youth who have studied instruction in composition, improvisation, basic theory, chart reading and ear training.

 Every Saturday from 3PM to 4PM, AAMI students get together under the supervision of Howie Alexander III to practice their ensemble skills. During these sessions they learn everything they need to play with a group including:  how to have respectful musical conversations; feel the music; find the pocket; swing and solo.  With jazz as our foundation, we also explore Gospel, R&B and Pop and the way in which jazz traditions contribute to musicality and how musicianship remains a critical skill to modern musicians.