As we wrap up the last day of this year’s UNC Summer Jazz Workshop, I want to take a moment to reflect on these four takeaways from the experience.
1. Players of all skill levels (and non players) are welcome
The workshop staff are adept at holding lessons at different levels and forming performance combos that work with players at various levels. In addition, if you don’t play an instrument and love jazz, you can join the journalism section of the course and write articles like this! Do not let lack of experience keep you from participating.
2. The nightly concerts feature some of the best performances in the area
The workshop’s nightly concerts are free and open to the public. They feature professional artists from across the country as well as some of UNC’s talented faculty. This year saw performances from Al Strong, Roland and Rahsaan Barber, Jerald Shynett, Ed Paolantonio, Keith Ganz, Jason Foureman, Kobie Watkins, Dan Davis, Dr. Juan Alamo, Dr. Gregg Gelb, and of course Dr. Stephen Anderson, the director of the program. Even if you are not a part of the workshop, make sure to tune in for next year’s concerts!
3. Check out #UNCjazz on Twitter to see performance highlights
Every year, students in the journalism section of the workshop post live images and footage from one of the nightly concerts. If you missed the performances, make sure to check out #UNCjazz on Twitter. This year we covered Thursday’s Latin dance night.
4. You’ll learn a lot about jazz history
From the early jazz of the 1920s to modern funk of the 1980s, Dan Davis will make sure you leave the workshop with much more knowledge of the genre than you walked in with. Professor Davis makes class fun and interesting, introducing you to many influential artists throughout history. You’ll also learn basic music theory on the piano.
The summer workshop truly is an experience you won’t want to miss, so make sure to keep an eye out for next year’s sign up!