To perform in the ensemble, horn players need music reading skills and at least grade 3 on your instrument. Other instrumentalists must be confident in their ability to read chord charts. Drummers and percussionists need to be confident and accurate with a variety of feels and time signatures. Vocalists need to be able to learn by ear or from lead sheets. Although there is no pre-assessment for the course, you need to be at a level that is appropriate for the ensemble as a whole. You will also be expected to complete an Individual Learning Plan to help support your progress. 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 bass player, 2 percussionists, up to two keyboard players, up to four singers, up to two guitarists, as many wind instruments such as sax, trumpet etc that want to join the ensemble. If there are too many of a particular instrument (or vocal performers) that can be accommodated by the ensemble, we reserve the right to direct you to another appropriate course. If an individuals confidence level is not appropriate for the ensemble, we reserve the right to direct you to another appropriate course.

As a group you will play through a range of songs and tunes from the jazz repertoire. You will also do exercises to improve your use of appropriate scales, arpeggios and phrases, and study some common jazz chord progressions. Please note - although you will be introduced to all the above over a single term (10-weeks), the course is developmental over the whole year. If you sign up for the full three terms (courses A, B and C) at the start of the academic year e.g. August / September you will be entitled to the early bird discount.

You will learn through, practical activities, group exercises and peer assessment, listening and analysis, demonstration and discussion, use of supporting online materials, individual practice, use of ILT and continuous assessment. There is no homework associated with the sessions but please do discuss extension activities with your tutor.

You will be expected to work independently to develop your practical music making skills. The focus should be on instrumental practice but may also include researching material to perform e.g. improvisation and solos for a particular piece. You should also develop your music theory skills.

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.

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. Advice and Guidance for all further study is available from the Curriculum Manager by request.

For more information, please contact the Learner Services Team via Live Chat or on 020 7255 4700 or email LearnerServices@wmcollege.ac.uk.

Teachers are supported to ensure their materials are inclusive to meet all learners needs. Provision of assistive equipment is available and access support can be provided through reasonable adjustments, subject to an assessment by the ALS team and/or the Disability Officer. Digital Learning support is available in the Learning Centre at our Camden site. Careers advice and guidance is also available to all learners.

WM College is able to provide financial support with course fees and you may be eligible based on prior qualifications, if you are on a low income or on benefits. For more information and to find out if you are eligible, go to the Fees & Finance page on our website or contact the Learner Services team via Live Chat or on 020 7255 4700.