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Norges musikkhøgskole Norwegian Academy of Music Search

Jazz, Pop, Rock Sec­ond­ary Instru­ment – Rhythm Sec­tion

  • Year of study: Two semesters, autumn and spring
  • Final assessment: Assessment from course coordinator
  • Language of instruction: Norwegian/English

The course is aimed at students at Bachelor and Master levels who are studying within the improvised music/jazz programme options.

Course description

The course offers basic training in drums and double bass/electric bass.

Learning objectives

After completing the course the student is expected to

  • be able to play the drums and bass as supporting instruments and in simple compositional contexts
  • master basic techniques on the instruments
  • be able to play the instruments by reading music and using aural skills

Overview

  • Basic drum techniques.
  • Basic bass techniques.
  • Ensemble playing and accompaniment.
  • Playing from written music and chord notation.

The repertoire used is adapted to the students’ levels and the genres they are involved with.

Structure

Instruction is given both individually and in groups. The course is organised in blocks, where the students are given group instruction in different periods by a drum teacher and then a bass teacher. Eventually, the students play together in a group, where they take turns playing the various instruments.

The NMH provides the instruments that will be played on the school’s premises. The instruments cannot be taken home.

Course requirements

Students must be present at a minimum of 80% of the classes. Students must present a repertoire list of at least 20 minutes duration that includes all the areas covered in the course.

Final assessments

The students must present two recordings of at least 10 minutes duration, where they play each instrument together with the other students in the group or with others. Alternatively, this can be organised as a practical examination with two internal examiners present.

All coursework must be approved before the student can be given a final assessment.

New assessment

Students failing the course will have to apply to re-follow the course for a new assessment. Students may only re-follow the course if there are available places.

Published: Mar 19, 2021 — Last updated: Apr 7, 2024