(From the 2020 California All-State Music Education Conference)
“Clinician Mike Dana demystifies jazz theory and offer directors specific approaches on how to assist students in refining their improvised solos, understanding how jazz harmony works, decoding chord symbols, creating good jazz chord voicings, and more. Most students (and many directors) have similar questions: “How do I know what key I’m in?” Or, “I know what key I’m in…why does this note sound bad?” Or, “What are the best notes to play for F7#9?” Mike offers clear and effective ways to answer these and many other questions, using materials and techniques used in his 36 years of teaching jazz at every level. Accompanying handouts are included for beginning, intermediate, and advanced level students. This clinic is invaluable for directors hoping to take their ensembles to the next level.”
Link to audio tracks, iReal Pro practice tracks, and other materials here.
The handouts and other materials are great resources, but it’s not the same as actually being at the clinic. If you’d like to have me visit your school, district, conference, or festival, please contact me through the link on the home page.