I arrange vocal jazz because I love it. I sang in vocal jazz ensembles throughout school and listen to vocal groups all the time because I love it.
I teach it because I believe in it.
I believe that learning to sing the close harmony we encounter in vocal jazz is the best way to develop:
- a strong ear
- the best reading skills
- an intuitive sense of blend and balance
- an appreciation and understanding of a century of American art music
- part independence and confidence
- an adaptive vocal tone that can adjust to a wide variety of situations.
- a good balance of intellect and heart in musical interpretation
- a deep esteem for the benefits of community and trust in an ensemble
- a personal practice work ethic
Singing close harmony is also incredibly fun, don’t get me wrong. I hope that’s why my students sing it. It’s why I love it – it’s thrilling, engaging, entertaining, and challenging. Fun.
But that’s not why I teach it. I teach it because I believe in it as a modality for learning.
You can learn everything I mentioned above in any ensemble. I happen to think singing in a vocal jazz group is the most efficient.