This course traces the development of jazz from the Swing Era through Bebop, Cool, Hard Bop, Avant-Garde/Free Jazz, and Fusion to its present post-contemporary forms. Attention will be given to both the major and specific jazz innovations. Upon completion of this course, you will be able to participate in an in-depth discussion in regard to the essential periods, schools, performers, and external aspects of American jazz from its origins to the present. Furthermore, you will be able to identify composers, compositions, schools, and styles from recorded examples.

Moderators: Alvin Crawford majored in music in college. He is Emeritus Professor in the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at UC, served as Assistant Instructor in Jazz History at the UC-CCM in 2023 and 2024, and currently is a member of the Queen City Concert Band and the UC Alumni Band. Craig Bailey is Interim Director of Jazz Studies and Associate Professor of Music in Jazz Saxophone at CCM. Jean Crawford will also assist.