Objectives;
You will use your knowledge of jazz methods and values to compare and contrast two performances of a jazz tune.
You will demonstrate your ability to write a clear, knowledgeable, opinion on these performances.
Your job, in this assignment, is to find at least two versions of the same tune and compare and contrast the performances. I want copies of the music you listened to. They can be Youtube links, MP3 files. I just want to be able to listen to what you listened to. You can list the youtube links or attach your MP3 files at the end of the paper.
The process will be relatively simple. Find a JAZZ tune that you enjoy (maybe one from class, or that you’ve heard and liked before, or simply poking around on the web.) Then see if you can find other versions of the same tune. If you can’t readily find a second version of the tune, you probably want to just pick another one. If you are totally at a loss as to where to start, there is a list given at the end of these instructions of a whole bunch of jazz standards that have been recorded over and over.
Here’s the basic idea:
Give the name of the tune and its composer.
Give any history you might have found (Who made it famous? When was it written? Etc.)
Describe the two bands. (What instruments? Who is playing them?)
Describe each performance. (What style? How was the form put together?)
Point out the differences in the performances.
Give your opinion on each performance. (Did you like one more? Why? )
Use proper, university level writing skills (capitalizations, paragraphs, spelling, spacing etc.)
This is just a basic list to get you going. A good paper flows and is conversational. Don’t just run down the list answering the questions. Make it more reader friendly by just being yourself and talking about the tunes and your experience listening to them.
· 500 word minimum.
· Tunes must be attached or turned in with the paper.
· Use proper university level writing techniques
Here is a list of a bunch of tunes to check out if need some inspiration. YouTube any of these and you will probably get a bunch of versions. Try to select “name” artists or, at least, quality performances.
Some Common Jazz “Standards”
