To perform in the ensemble, instrumentalists need to play at a standard of at least grade 3
on your instrument, and a strong music reading ability is helpful but not essential.
Confidence in your ability to read chord charts is a must. Drummers and percussionists need
to be confident and accurate with a variety of feels and time signatures. Vocalists need to
have good ears and be able to learn by ear, and the ability to use lead sheets will be very
helpful.
You will need a brief interview with Performing Arts Department staff before you can enrol.
The class can accommodate the following musicians up to a limit of 10 in total (the group
can be bigger with tutor approval) - 1 drummer, 1 bassist (electric or upright), 1
percussionist, up to 2 pianists, up to four singers, up to two guitarists, and as many brass
and woodwind instruments such as sax, trumpet etc. as wish to join the ensemble. More
unconventional jazz instruments are also welcome to apply! If there are too many of a
particular instrument (or vocal performers) to be accommodated by the ensemble, we
reserve the right to direct you to another appropriate course.

You will learn through practical activities, group exercises and peer assessment, listening and analysis, demonstration and discussion, use of supporting online materials, and individual practice. In order to make progress, regular practice sessions by yourself outside class are important.

You will be continually assessed through your practical activities and will receive feedback in a variety of ways such as peer assessment, verbal and written feedback from your teacher. This is a non-accredited course, but a certificate of completion can be provided by the College on request. Once you have completed the course, you may choose to enrol on a further term in this subject or another subject.

You may be eligible for fee reductions or one of our bursaries, please check the Information and Advice section of our website to find out more.

Teachers are supported to ensure their materials are inclusive to meet learners’ needs. Provision of assistive equipment is available and access support can be provided through reasonable adjustments, subject to an interview with the ALS team and/or the Disability Officer. Digital Learning support is available in the Learning Centre.

We offer free support with finding a job, including 1-1 support with job applications, creating a CV or improving your interview skills, as well as advice about progression opportunities. Visit the website for more information or to book an appointment with our Employability Coach.

There are regular cross-college events, external speaker visits, exhibitions, and opportunities for you to get involved in college life. Look out for adverts around the college, iLearn or sign up to Our Newsletter via the website.

Adam is a professional musician, composer and bandleader hailing from Liverpool.

Since arriving in London to study Jazz at Trinity Laban Conservatoire, he has made a name for himself on the music scene, performing live and for recordings in a variety of genres across the country, primarily on his main instruments of electric and upright bass.

Adam is also accomplished in music production, and has mixed albums for professional artists, as well as producing and engineering projects in recording studios.