Learning Goals
This course is an introduction to the American musical tradition known as "Jazz." Topics for study and discussion will include: 
1. Musical instruments and performance techniques 
2. Singing styles and related vocal techniques
3. Genres and forms
4. Aspects of culture, society, history and geography as they relate to this music as practiced primarily in the United States since about 1900. 

In addition to learning about this music and the people who made and used it, you will also: 
1. Improve your critical listening skills. 
2. Acquire a basic vocabulary for describing music.
3. Develop your communication skills by writing about music.