Developing your rhythm section skills

When & Where

22 April 2025 - 1 July 2025 ( 19.5 hours, 11 weeks )
Evening, Tuesday
View course timetable
Waterloo Centre

Quick Facts

Availability Yes
Tutor Multiple
Course Code W24JPMA04C
Suitable For 19 year olds and up are permitted on this course

What you will learn

As Rhythm Section players we spend 80% of our time on the gig, comping and accompanying others, where as spend 80% of our time practising soloing! This course concentrates on rhythm section playing, each players role in the band, how to comp behind soloists, bass solos, how to play as a rhythm section, how the greats do it!Designed for Pianists, Guitarists, Bass players and Drummers who are keen to develop their rhythm section skills. Drummer Flavio Li Vigni Designed for Pianists, Guitarists, Bass players and Drummers who are keen to develop their rhythm section skills. Drummer Flavio Li Vigni will lead 3 sessions.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

Consolidate the knowledge gained in term 1 and 2
Be confident of your role in the rhythm section
Identify and replicate comping rhythms
Be confident accompanying Bass solos, 4s with Drums.
Be comfortable playing on beat and off beat motifs
Start to transcribe comping rhythms of great jazz players : Kenny Barron, Sonny Clarke, George Duke, Herbie Hancock , Kirk Lightsey, Monk ,Oscar Peterson etc
Memorise and recall forms and chord sequences of numerous standard tunes.
Develop confidence playing in different styles, swing, Bossa Nova, jazz waltz, funk.
Have fun playing in a rhythm section.

Cost

Full fee

£170

Concession fee

£130

Click here for information on Fees, Funding and Concessions (including financial support)

Class format and activities

The classes will be a mix of listening and playing. To reinforce and advance the work we have been doing over the last 2 terms, I am aiming to introduce 3 new standard tunes in a mix of styles. We will listen/ discuss and try to use the comping rhythms of some jazz greats to improve our playing. In addition, we will consider what makes a 'good' rhythm section and how to make arrangements on the spot!

Entry requirements

Piano Players and guitarists : 2 different voicings, able to read through and play a lead sheet, Bass players: able to confidently walk through a lead sheet, Drummers knowledge of/ keen interest in the jazz idiom.

What you need to know before you enrol

If you are unsure whether this is the right course for you, please contact the tutor at the email address below.

What you need

Bass and Guitar: BYO instrument and lead. Amps, Pianos, Drums all provided

What you can do next

Join one of our other jazz courses. Speak with your tutor