Chicago jazz vocalist Tammy McCann, artist in residence at the Music Institute of Chicago, performs with Music Institute Jazz Studies faculty March 21–24 at the Jazz Showcase in Chicago.
Joining McCann are Jazz Studies faculty members Jeremy Kahn, piano; Stewart Miller, bass; Ernie Adams, drums; Director Audrey Morrison, trombone; Victor Garcia, trumpet; and guest Pat Mallinger, saxophone. The Reunion Jazz Orchestra performs with the group Sunday, March 24.
According to McCann: The Jazz Showcase performances demonstrate the importance of having working musicians teach young jazz students. The Music Institute’s Jazz Studies program has Chicago’s foremost jazz instructors, who are re-creating the apprenticeship method of teaching the art of jazz. As artist in residence, I have had the pleasure of performing with each of them individually and am looking forward to exploring our combined musical ideas on one stage.
According to Music Institute President and CEO Mark George: How will the next generation of jazz artists be developed? The Music Institute of Chicago believes that excellent training in the jazz arts should include regular interaction between students and highly accomplished professional musicians. Jazz musicians have traditionally been developed through an informal cycle of mentorship and apprenticeship. Improvisation is a skill that you learn in the course of performing alongside more experienced players.
This is where the Music Institute’s Jazz Studies program shines. Students receive regular instruction from professional, working musicians. Faculty members jump in to play with student ensembles, enhancing the experience and passing on vital musical information.
Upcoming jazz mentorship opportunities at the Music Institute include a master class taught by Tammy McCann; “So You Want To Be A Jazz Singer?” Saturday, April 6, 1:00 p.m.– 3:00 p.m. at Nichols Concert Hall, Evanston. The class is free and open to the public.
