Explore the sonic landscape of jazz. Learn in-depth about tunes from the Great American Songbook and the standard jazz repertoire through ensemble workshops, listening sessions of classic recordings, and tutor demonstrations.
Resident: £412 Non-Resident: £302 (25% off for under 27s) Code: 26/216
Members priority booking opens at 9am on Tuesday 17 June
General booking opens at 9am on Friday 11 July.
For details on how to become a Member to take advantage of early booking, see here.
This course runs from 5.30pm on Monday 23 March to 4pm on Wednesday 25 March 2026.
What is the course about?
Develop your knowledge and understanding of the music of the Great American Songbook and a range of jazz standards in this popular 2-night course. You will have the opportunity to learn in-depth from Marco Marconi and Mark Wade with each tutor sharing their unique perspectives in ensemble workshops, listening sessions of classic recordings, and through demonstrations. Whether you are just starting out or have years of experience, this course will increase your knowledge of core jazz repertoire and how to approach it with confidence and style.
Marco Marconi is an award-winning pianist signed to 33 Jazz Records and Mark Wade is a five-time finalist for bassist of the year in the Downbeat Magazine Reader’s Poll.
Tutor websites: www.marcomarconi.com www.markwademusicny.com
What will we cover?
You will explore songs from the American Songbook and standard jazz repertoire in order to develop your style and knowledge as a jazz performer, improviser and accompanist.
What will we accomplish? By the end of this course you will be able to…
By the end of this course you will have a deeper understanding of selected jazz standards and have more confidence as a jazz improviser and ensemble player.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
This course is open to students of all levels.
How will the course be taught, and will any preparation be required?
You will play with one another in ensembles coached by Marco and Mark and will also have the opportunity to play directly with the tutors as well. In addition, there will be listening sessions of classic and modern recordings of this music to give you a wider perspective of how this music can be played. The tutors will also demonstrate examples of different ways to improvise over these songs.
Will music be provided in advance of the course?
Yes, it will be available on our website.
Is there anything I need to bring?
Just bring your instrument.
What previous participants said about this course…
“The course was fun, relaxed and very friendly.”
“With Marconi and Mark we were in the very capable hands of two expert and experienced jazz musicians, both more than happy to share their vast playing opportunities and inspire to further advance what skills we already possessed.”
“Excellent: the tutors were enthusiastic and took a personal interest in us.”
“To have two such talented tutors, especially a double bassist was fantastic. The listening exercise made a worthwhile change from playing and is something I will continue to do.”
“An opportunity to improve your harmony and improvisation skills; to play with other musicians of varying standards both in formal and informal sessions and to socialise out of hours with course attendees and tutors.”
“Relaxing and stimulating environment, comfortable yet demanding on your skills.”