EDUCATION

Swing U

Swing University offers engaging virtual classes about jazz history, new and classic tunes, and listening methods that will improve your concert-going experiences.

Fall Term October 6 – December 18

Fall term goes on sale September 11. Swing University offers engaging virtual classes about jazz history, new and classic tunes, and listening methods that will improve your concert-going experiences. The classes are taught by musicians and industry professionals bringing you masterclasses on some of jazz’s most interesting subjects.

Save on all classes with the  All-Access PassMembers save an additional 15%. If you are a member, please email swingu@jazz.org for your order. The All-Access Pass includes access to all courses and the following perks: 

  • – Office Hours with Swing U Curator Seton Hawkins
  • – Blindfold Listening Sessions
  • – Movie Matinees
  • – A 15% discount on your annual subscription to Jazz Live, Jazz at Lincoln Center’s streaming app.
  • – If the All-Access Pass isn’t right for you, browse our schedule to enroll in select courses and single classes.

THINGS TO KNOW

  • Swing U classes will be available to re-watch on-demand up to 7 days after airing. Single tickets are available for sale up until class time.
  • Class run time is approximately 60–75 minutes.
  • A link to the class will be included in your purchase confirmation email.
  • Questions? Technical difficulties? Email swingu@jazz.org and we’ll be happy to assist.

Register for classes

ALL ACCESS
INCLUDES EVERY COURSE
$275
BUY PASS
ALL ACCESS
MEMBER PRICE
$234
MEMBERSHIP
COURSE
Online
$16-$88
BUY COURSE
single Class
Online
$10
BUY CLASS

Jazz at Lincoln Center Members save an additional 15% on the All-Access Pass. If you are a member, please email SwingU@jazz.org to process your order.

MON 7PM ET • OCT 6 – DEC 15

A Beginner's Guide to Jazz, with Seton Hawkins

In Jazz 101, we will guide you through the history and development of various jazz styles. Students will develop their ears to hear the many details and intricacies that make this music so endlessly fascinating. Swing University curator Seton Hawkins takes you on this exciting journey through the music.

TUE 7PM ET • OCT 7–28

The Life and Music of Carmen McRae, with Gillian Margot

Vocalist and educator Gillian Margot takes you into the musical genius of one of Jazz’s most extraordinary and versatile vocalists: Carmen McRae!

WED 7PM ET • OCT 8 – NOV 12

South African Piano Masters: Abdullah Ibrahim and Bheki Mseleku with Seton Hawkins and Aaron Rimbui

Over six weeks, Swing University curator Seton Hawkins and Kenyan piano virtuoso Aaron Rimbui will guide you through the music of two of South Africa’s greatest Jazz masters: Abdullah Ibrahim and Bheki Mseleku. Join us for a remarkable journey into the musical minds of two of the 20th century’s most brilliant and unique piano voices.

THU 7PM ET • OCT 9–30

The Genius of Celia Cruz with Joe Conzo

Jazz at Lincoln Center celebrates the centennial of one of the world’s greatest musical voices: Celia Cruz! Join music scholar and author Joe Conzo for an incredible walk through the life and music of this legendary singer.

FRI 7PM ET • OCT 10–31

The Genius and Legacy of Art Blakey with Walter Blanding

Saxophonist and educator Walter Blanding guides you through the music of one of Jazz’s greatest drummers, most forward-thinking bandleaders, and musical minds of all time: Art Blakey.

TUE 7PM ET • NOV 4–25

The Music of Big Band Vocalists with Tammy McCann

One of Jazz’s greatest living vocalists, Tammy McCann, guides you through the extraordinary world of big band vocalists, from early pioneers like Ella Fitzgerald all the way through to the vocal masters of today.

THU 7PM ET • NOV 6–20

The History of Zydeco with Ann Savoy

Vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, author, educator, and scholar Ann Savoy takes you into the glorious musical world of Zydeco! Join us for a thrilling look at one of Jazz’s cousins, and one of the world’s most exciting and danceable styles of all time.

FRI 7PM ET • NOV 7 – DEC 12

The History of Spirituals with Charenee Wade

Vocalist and educator Charenee Wade guides you through the history and development of spirituals, taking you into the heartbeat of the music and introducing you to some of its greatest artists.

WED 7PM ET • NOV 19 – DEC 10

The Guitar Mastery of Charlie Christian with James Zito

Guitarist James Zito takes you into the musical genius of one of the electric guitar’s earliest pioneers, Charlie Christian! Join us as we explore how Christian’s brilliance helped launch the guitar into previously unconsidered possibilities.

TUE 7PM ET • DEC 2–9

The Guitar Style of Oscar Moore with Nick Rossi

You might not know the name Oscar Moore, but you know the playing. Famed for his extraordinary work with the Nat Cole Trio, Oscar Moore cast a long shadow that would influence countless guitarists to follow. Guitarist Nick Rossi guides you through this unsung master of the guitar.

THU 7PM ET • DEC 4–18

When the Levee Breaks: The Music of Memphis Minnie with Candice Ivory

Vocalist, educator, and scholar Candice Ivory guides you through the life and music of one of Blues’ most exceptional and iconoclastic masters: Memphis Minnie! Join us for a three-week exploration of this incredible vocalist, guitarist, and composer!

SUN 7PM ET • DEC 7

Scott Joplin and Treemonisha with Seton Hawkins

In a one-night-only course, Swing University curator Seton Hawkins explores the history and rebirth of Treemonisha, the opera of Ragtime pioneer Scott Joplin.

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