From Swingin’ on the Swingset to Swingin’ on the Bandstand: A Curriculum for Middle School Jazz Rhythm Section

Abstract

Music educators are often unfamiliar with the role and importance of the jazz rhythm section. Resources are lacking for educators teaching beginning jazz students in general, and even more so for beginning rhythm section instrumentalists. The following curriculum is intended to assist band directors with teaching fundamental jazz rhythm section concepts at the middle school age level. Insufficient literature exists addressing jazz rhythm section playing in general, especially curriculum geared towards adolescents. Current historical and ethnographic literature provides a brief overview of jazz rhythm sections and is primarily focused on adult education. Method books predominantly address individual playing, but not playing as a unit within the jazz rhythm section. This study and the accompanying curriculum are informed by existing literature along with qualitative data from interviews with prolific jazz rhythm section players. Some of the general concepts covered in this curriculum include terminology, accompaniment, jazz styles, listening, and individual and group performance. A succinct, detailed and effective curriculum will provide a clearer path for students to begin exploring the art form of jazz accompanying.