Clinics
The Mt. SAC Jazz Festival includes two clinics running at the same time so students can choose the session that best matches their needs. Both clinics take place from 12:00 pm–1:00 pm. Clinician names, rooms, and session details will be posted here as the festival date approaches.
| Time | Clinic options |
|---|---|
| 12:00 pm–1:00 pm | Improv Clinic and Rhythm Section Clinic (running concurrently) |
Directors will receive final room assignments and clinician information by email. This page will be updated with the same details.
Improv Clinic
Location: TBD (posted closer to the festival)
Clinician: TBD
This clinic focuses on practical improvisation skills that students can apply immediately in rehearsal and performance. Content will be adaptable for middle school, high school, and advanced groups.
Possible topics
- Building confident solos using guide tones and chord tones
- Phrase length, motivic development, and shaping a chorus
- Blues and modal approaches, depending on group level
- Trading fours and listening skills for ensemble interaction
Rhythm Section Clinic
Location: TBD (posted closer to the festival)
Clinician: TBD
This clinic is designed for piano, guitar, bass, and drums, with an emphasis on time feel, style, and playing together. Directors and horn players are welcome to observe.
Possible topics
- Time feel, subdivision, and locking in as a unit
- Comping concepts for swing and straight eighth styles
- Bass line clarity, harmonic motion, and articulation
- Drum set roles: ride pattern, hi hat, fills, and shaping dynamics
More details coming soon
We will post clinician names, room locations, and session descriptions as soon as the festival schedule is finalized. Directors will also receive the same information by email.
