EDUCATION
Swing U
Swing University offers engaging virtual and in-person classes about jazz history, new and classic tunes, and listening methods that will improve your concert-going experiences.
Register for classes
$440
$374
$24–$80
$15
Jazz at Lincoln Center Members save $66 on the All-Access Pass. If you are a member, please email SwingU@jazz.org to process your order.
MON 7PM ET • OCT 2–23
The Wynton Marsalis Small Groups
Join trumpet master Tatum Greenblatt as he guides you through the history and the music of one of the most influential and admired bands of the 1980s and ’90s: the small ensembles of Wynton Marsalis. Diving into such iconic albums as Black Codes from the Underground, The Majesty of the Blues, and more, you’ll discover what makes these works transcendent.
Instructor: Tatum Greenblatt
TUE 7PM ET • OCT 3–DEC 5
Jazz 101: A Beginners Guide
Jazz 101 provides an interactive experience detailing the history and evolution of various jazz styles. Students will develop their ears to hear the stylistic nuances and intricacies of craft that make this music endlessly fascinating. Drummer and educator Darrian Douglas will provide your introduction to jazz; no musical knowledge is required.
Instructor: Darrian Douglas
WED 7PM ET • OCT 4–25
The Life of Josephine Baker
An iconic figure of popular music history; a highly influential dancer, singer, and actor; a war hero; Josephine Baker was all of these and more. Over four weeks, Tymisha Harris and Michael Marinaccio, co-creators of the biographical play Josephine, will lead you through the life of this extraordinary figure.
Instructor: Lauren Michele Jackson
THU 7PM ET • OCT 5–19
THE MUSIC OF LES PAUL
A master guitarist whose works spans decades and genres; a pioneer in music technology whose efforts evolved modern recording techniques; and a beloved songwriter of American music hits, Les Paul remains one of the most admired and influential musical voices of the 20th century. Over three weeks, guitarist and educator Justin Poindexter invites you into the storied legacy of this artist and innovator.
Instructor: Justin Poindexter
FRI 7PM ET • OCT 6–NOV 17
Louis Armstrong’s Greatest Albums
Join Grammy Award-winning scholar and director of research collections at Louis Armstrong House Museum Ricky Riccardi as he acquaints you with some of Louis Armstrong’s most powerful recordings. Over six sessions, he’ll share the stories behind the songs and provide a close reading on one of the most important figures in music history.
Instructor: Ricky Riccardi
MON 7PM ET • OCT 30–NOV 13
The Music of Roy Hargrove
JLCO member Sherman Irby presents a side of Roy Hargrove you’ve never heard. For three nights, join the saxophonist and composer as he delves into the trumpet master’s sublime musical works. Sharing insights from his own experiences working with Roy, Sherman will share an intimate portrait of a colossal figure.
Instructor: Sherman Irby
WED 7PM ET • NOV 1–DEC 13
THE HISTORY OF THE PALLADIUM BALLROOM
Author, educator, and musical legend Joe Conzo, Sr. will immerse you in the sound, movement, and pivotal moments of the Palladium Ballroom – one of the most important venues in music history and the crucible for some of the greatest innovations in Latin jazz.
Instructor: Joe Conzo, Sr.
THU 7PM ET • NOV 2–16
DESERT BLUES AND THE MUSIC OF ALI FARKA TOURÉ
Pianist Aaron Rimbui and Swing University curator Seton Hawkins will explore the music of Malian guitar virtuoso Ali Farka Toure and discuss his role in the style of “Desert Blues.”
Instructor: Aaron Rimbui and Seton Hawkins
Sat 3pm ET • NOV 4–DEC 16
THE HISTORY OF JAZZ BASS
Bass legend Rodney Whitaker takes you through the history and development of jazz from the bass player’s perspective. From Pops Foster to Paul Chambers and beyond, Rodney will provide engaging examples of how the evolution of jazz bass informed and inspired the layered developments of this music.
Instructor: Rodney Whitaker
MON 7PM ET • NOV 20–DEC 11
The Genius of Ed Blackwell
Master drummer and educator Andrew Drury translates the unique genius of his mentor and hero: legendary drummer Ed Blackwell. Join Andrew for a deep dive into Ed’s music and explore the sound and expression that boldly influenced a generation of drummers and artists.
Instructor: Andrew Drury
THU 7PM ET • NOV 30–DEC 13
The MUSIC OF EDDIE SAUTER AND BILL FINEGAN
In their own works as well as their combined artistry that would become the Sauter-Finegan Orchestra, composers Eddie Sauter and Bill Finegan created some of the most striking and remarkable large ensemble arrangements in jazz history. Master educator Loren Schoenberg invites you to experience the breadth and resonance of their music in this three-week course.
Instructor: Loren Schoenberg
FRI 3PM ET • DEC 1–DEC 15
THE LIFE OF JAMES REESE EUROPE
Author and scholar Caseen Gaines explores the life and music of pivotal American artist James Reese Europe. A pioneer in early 20th century American music, an icon of New York’s music scene, and one of the first figures to bring Black American music to European audiences, James also became a pioneer in business and a brilliant organizer for Black musicians. We’ll explore his life and impact over three weeks.
Instructor: Caseen Gaines
SAT 5PM ET • OCT 14–NOV 18
JAZZ SOUNDTRACKS: JAZZ AND ANIMATION (IN-PERSON)
Swing University returns to in-person programming with an amazing multimedia course. Join us every Saturday for six weeks as instructors and musicians dive with you into the history of jazz and animation. From iconic classics like The Jungle Book to modern works like Soul, we’ll explore the social and artistic impact of these combined art forms.
Instructor: Will Friedwald & guests