Q:  What if I don't know how to play an instrument?

 

A:  You don't need to know how to play any instrument to take most of our jazz classes, because all classes emphasize the art of listening, practice, theory, and the understanding of the history of jazz, and the lineage of its teachings.  All you need is a desire to learn jazz music and to grow creatively through understanding its creative process.  You will need to know how to play an instrument at an intermediate level (NYSSMA Level 4) to register for any of our performance workshops.

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Q:  I only play classical, concert, or marching band, so can I join?

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A:  Yess!  As long as you can sight read at an intermediate level and play all your major scales fluidly (NYSSMA Level 4), you will learn the rest as you play in one of our Big Band or Jazz Combo performance workshops.  This applies to both students and adults.

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Q:  I play bassoon, oboe, french horn, baritone horn, cello, violin, flute, and clarinet.  Which one of these can I play at Queens School of Jazz?

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A:  ALL of them!  Each of these instruments can easily fit into a jazz combo.  Big Bands typically have a number of saxes, trumpets, trombones, and a rhythm section, but can add strings, woodwinds, and brass if the numbers are right.

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Q:  The last time I played was in high school.  Can I join?

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A:  OF COURSE!  As long as you can remember to play your scales and read at an intermediate level (NYSSMA 4), you will learn the rest at the school, including how to swing and play the blues!  This applies to both students and adults.  All this can be achieved in one of our Big Band or Jazz Combo performance workshops.  Private lessons are also available.

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Q:  I have amazing ears but cannot read.  Can I join?

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A:  "Yes" to combos but "no" to big bands, because big bands by nature are chart intensive, and for better or worse, we will be required to read these charts to get through the tune.  Acceptance to combos on a "by ear" basis will be considered on a case by case basis.

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