This a letter/list to those future students that are on the fence about taking the jazz workshop, or anyone who just wants a first-hand experience of it.
Hello Tar Heels and the rest of the known world,
In the summer of 2023, I was fortunate enough to be able to partake in UNC’s 13th annual Summer Jazz Workshop. I had the unique experience of being able to participate in both the journalism and performance sections of the workshop, i.e., I was able to take the morning jazz theory and advanced improve with Professor Anderson, and after lunch, I joined the journalism group for the rest of the day.
Hence, I will give my takeaways from each of the sections.
Two reasons why to enroll in the performance portion.
Reason one: Jazz chords, jazz chords, jazz chords!
Are you a beginner, intermediate, or advanced musician who has hit a wall and is looking for a breakthrough? Or are you someone that just loves music and wants to do a full immersion course that will enhance your musical abilities and understanding? Well! If that is the case then look no further! Because UNC’s Summer jazz workshop is the place for you! Here’s why.
In the advanced morning theory class with Professor Anderson, I was able to learn various jazz concepts such as different jazz styles, bracketing, and jazz chords. The theory class is certainly a challenge and not for the faint of heart. I have a solid footing in classical music theory and was able to keep up with most of the theory that was taught. However, if you don’t feel comfortable with your current knowledge or understanding do not worry. There are other Theory sections for intermediate and beginner musicians.
My peers and I have nothing but praise for the new ideas and concepts we were exposed to.
Reason Two: Salsa Night.
Every day of the workshop ends with a performance by different artists and we get to experience different genres of jazz. On Thursday evening (the fourth day of the workshop), a salsa instructor comes through and teaches some salsa moves. At first, everyone is somewhat shy and hesitant to participate, but after a few minutes, everyone is learning new moves and having a blast. This was definitely my favorite part of the workshop.
Two reasons why to enroll in the performance portion.
If you want to learn journalism techniques and concepts but don’t have any experience or if you’re an experienced journalist and want a refresher on some ideas, then the journalism portion of the workshop is for you!
Reason one: Professor Andy Bechtel.
Professor Bechtel was the professor for the journalism portion. He is extremely knowledgeable in the field of journalism. He is very welcoming as well. I have zero experience in this field, and I felt welcomed I also learned a lot about what goes into brainwashing people via media — just kidding! I did actually learn some advanced concepts of the field, such as how and what to do when interviewing people.
Reason two: On-the-job training and fieldwork.
Two piggyback off the first reason. I was able to immediately put my newly learned interview skills into action by going out into the field and interviewing participants in the workshop. This gave me a reason to be more social, and I was able to meet many of my talented peers. I also got to publish an interview for the public to read.
Here is the link to my interview for those that are interested in reading it: https://tarheels.live/uncjazz2021/2023/06/29/unc-summer-jazz-workshop-q-and-a-with-talented-young-musician/
In conclusion, this is the place to be. As the saying goes, be there or be square.