Saturday was filled with jazz education for teachers AND students at Berkner High School in Richardson, Texas! Five public school music educators joined Rich DeRosa for a master class for music educators. Rich is the Director of Jazz Composition and Arranging at the University of North Texas. He focused the discussion on the music topics of most interest to the attendees, selected by them.
Rich also worked with the Berkner High School Jazz Band. The band is directed by Marco Samperio, DMA, who is also associate band director for the school.
Rich said this master class delved into improv heavily, as some of the teachers were interested in bebop and playing chromatically. Class topic options include improv, scat, rhythm section, small group performance, unified ensemble sound, choosing appropriate repertoire, conducting and effective rehearsals.
Marco said the educators learned a lot, and “it was also wonderful to have Rich work with my kids on improvisation. I’m looking forward to continuing to extend everything that he did with them after our concert on April 30, 2024.”
He added, “Rich, your knowledge and expertise have made a significant impact on our teaching methods. Your insights on bebop had my head spinning in the best way possible. I hope we at HAPCO can sponsor another workshop with you in the future. Thank you again for everything!”
Great day for our Dallas area jazz cats!
