Art of the Trio, The (Jasper Somsen)
Module code
M-JP-TATT
Curricular domain
Profile, extension and depth: Practical Classes
Credits
3
Group size
10
Number of course weeks
10
Class duration
One 120-minute lesson per week
Total contact hours
20 hours. If there are fewer applications for this subject than indicated in the description, it will typically proceed with proportionally less contact time (and accordingly more individual attention per student), but never with fewer than 2 students.
Study load
64 hours
Form / content / level
Prerequisites
Admitted to second year of Bachelor phase. This subject can only be followed on-campus.
Competencies
Aims
Developing skills as a member of a trio.
Relation to other modules
Related to all practical modules.
Content
Performing in a trio line up is one of the most challenging formats in music. Especially in jazz/improvised music. Since each musician is equally important and clearly audible, the music demands strong individual voices and a highly personal musical interaction (interplay). Every trio constellation has its own character and challenges.
In this elective, double bassist/composer/producer Jasper Somsen will personally guide their students in exploring the art of performing in trio. The two students attending the trio class will directly interact with the teacher, forming a trio.
Besides the classic piano and guitar trio (with bass and drums), any trio combination is possible. Including vocals.
The trio classes will focus on:
1. Developing the individual voice of each trio member
2. Interplay and musical dialog
3. Historical trio music
4. Contemporary trio music
5. Standards repertoire
6. Composition and free improvisation
7. Performance and production
The elective is open for all vocalists and instrumentalists.
Mode(s) of instruction
Play and discuss in a group setting.
Material & Tools
n/a
Student activity
n/a
Examination and assessment
Mode(s) of assessment
Assessment by the instructor at the end of the spring semester.
Criteria
Students should have mastered the elements described under Contents.
Pass requirements
The student has completed this module if being awarded a minimum grade of 5.5 at the end of the second semester.
Examination procedure
Students are assessed at the end of the spring semester. The end-of-semester assessments comprise evaluations of students' performance during the lessons and, if applicable, public performances.
Resit options
Module summary
This module explores the mutual communication within a trio setting.