Music Educators Workshop: Bringing Jazz into the Classroom

Bringing Jazz into the Classroom: A Blueprint for the Non-Jazzer
June 24-28, 2024 | 12:30-5:30PM | Wilson Hall Rm 107 
Instructor: Skipp Spratt

This course is designed for the “non-jazzer” with a desire to better understand and utilize jazz pedagogy in any educational setting. Elements such as jazz interpretation and improvisation as well as how to teach these concepts in the classroom will be of primary focus. Using proven and reputable jazz resources, participants will learn the basics of improvisation as well as the theoretical elements such as modal improvisation, 12 bar blues, pattern playing and stylistic considerations. Participants may rehearse and perform on their primary instrument or instrument of choice. No previous jazz or improvisational experience is required.

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About the instructor: 
Norman “Skip” Spratt is a saxophonist and woodwind specialist who has performed with Natalie Cole, Tony Bennett, Johnny Mathis, Frank Sinatra Jr., Aretha Franklin, Tommy Tune, Ben Vereen, Joel Gray, The Ocean City Pops, and others. He has been a featured soloist with jazz greats Randy Brecker, Bill Watrous, and John Faddis as well as performing with The Berks Jazz Festival Big Band. Skip has recorded jingles for KYW Radio, WPVI Channel 6, Bally’s Park Place, and TV shows in Montreal, Puerto Rico, Philadelphia and AC. Skip has published many artist interviews and educational masterclasses in Saxophone Journal for Dorn Publications and Saxophone Today. His website SaxShed.com provides a service to saxophonists worldwide. Mr. Spratt is currently on faculty at Rowan University, Stockton University, and LaSalle College High School following a rewarding career as a Director of Instrumental Music at Berlin Community School. He holds a (BM) with honors in Jazz Saxophone and an (MAT) in Music Education from The University of the Arts.