Jazz Theory and Ear Training 10/2

Students will learn essential jazz theory concepts and engage in ear training exercises they can replicate at home. The goal is not to delve deeply into theory analysis, but to highlight key areas where students can practice and explore further on their own.

Cadence Okuwobi
(0.0/ 0 )
Last Updated : August 13, 2025

RSVP: https://forms.gle/Tn76skQi7YtsYezG6.
Time: 1:00-2:30pm

In this session, co-taught by Cadence Okuwobi and vibraphonist Josh Strange, students will get an overview of jazz theory and ear training exercises before learning how transcribing can bridge theory and ear training during practice. The session will start with a discussion of 7th chords, scales, voice leading, and chord progressions as the basis of jazz theory, accompanied by engaging exercises that demonstrate how theory shows up in real musical situations. From there, students will move into group ear training activities designed to identify areas for growth and provide practical strategies for improvement. The session will conclude with a focus on transcription. How to approach it, analyze what you’ve transcribed, and use it as a tool to develop both your theoretical understanding and your ear. The session will include time for Q&A, and as a bonus, we’ll be giving away books to participants!

What you will learn?

  • An Overview of Key Jazz Theory Aspects
  • Ear Training Excercises
  • How to Transcribe and Analyze Transcriptions

Tangible session results

  • Areas for Improvement in Theory and Ear Training with Targeted Exercises
  • Personalized Transcription Approach with Potential Solos
  • Opportunity to Win Omnibooks
Yes! Please RSVP through the google form so that we know who is coming and can plan accordingly.
Yes! This is one of our sessions with assigned and due homework to ensure that students fully understand the material. You can find the homework assigned and due at each session in the requirements section.
That depends on what you’re hoping to get out of the session. For the ear training portion of the session, there will be breakout groups for beginners and advanced students. The jazz theory portion, however, will be taught with all students. Beginners may not follow every explanation or term, but they’ll leave with a clear list of key concepts to learn and practice. Advanced students may already be familiar with some of the material, but they’ll benefit from identifying gaps in their understanding and learning strategies to deepen their knowledge independently. The session is designed to offer something valuable to a range of experience levels — just come ready to listen, ask questions, and engage!

Requirements

  • RSVP: https://forms.gle/Tn76skQi7YtsYezG6
  • Hwk Due: Bring a practice journal!
  • Hwk Assigned: Transcribe (and optionally analyze) 3 choruses of a blues or 1 chorus of a 32-bar form

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