On Wednesday, September 25th, the NAfME Drop-In series continued with the Rutgers Jazz Ensemble, directed by Dr. Anthony Branker. Despite the close proximity, it is rare that the jazz and classical programs overlap in such a direct way, so for many of the event attendees present, this was their first look at the inner workings of jazz at Mason Gross. This deficit is particularly noticed by
instrumental music education majors who often find themselves directors of jazz ensembles in their teaching placements, but have not received any formal insight from the current curriculum. With this context in mind, Branker began the rehearsal, and by extension, the event.
Dr. Branker was a proponent of musical fundamentals, as well as taking the artistry from the page to beyond the page. He advocated for understanding the musical trajectory of a chart, such as where it’s going, how long it takes to get there, and the checkpoints a performer must acknowledge throughout the journey. The relationship between performers was highlighted often, specifically between sections and between leads. In contrast to classical performance practice, lead performers within the jazz ensemble are responsible for nearly all added nuances throughout a piece, from large to minuscule details. For section members in general, it is necessary to listen within one’s own sections, no matter what part you play, in order to aid creation in a cohesive ensemble sound. For the rhythm section in specific, however, this is the fundamental of their ensemble responsibility. Bass and drums, for example, are two rhythm section components that must prioritize listening inwards to keep time effectively, as the ensemble is dependent on it. It was apparent that music in the jazz ensemble exists equally, if not more so, off the page than on it.
The ensemble was incredibly responsive to Dr. Branker, who often did not need to say more than a few words to create the sound he wanted. This comes as no surprise, as Branker is a decorated performer, conductor and educator who’s been a professor at Rutgers University for the last 6 years, and his prowess in jazz pedagogy is well documented. The innate passion he radiated throughout rehearsal was contagious. He took the time to thoroughly explain his thought processes regarding each decision he was making, and made a conscious effort to include his performers in those decisions, something that might not be reflected as often in the classical setting. When discussing how best to illustrate these decisions to an ensemble, Branker explained, “it’s not what you say, it’s how you say it.”
Once rehearsal concluded, Dr. Branker and the ensemble remained to provide some insight on how best to manage a young jazz program. Much of his advice stemmed from the idea of surrounding oneself in the art form. When it came to recruitment, he advised on creating an environment where jazz was enjoyed and experienced often, as to generate excitement about participating in such an ensemble. He also emphasized the importance of encouraging the listening to charts prior to rehearsals, and encouraging the listening to other ensemble members once the rehearsals begin. He also encouraged educators to instill confidence in their students regarding trickier jazz techniques that may demoralize young players trying to learn, such as improvisation. To build the confidence, he recommended a scaffolding approach, which could look like starting students on simple scales and moving slowly towards independent composition for improvisational skill building. Overall, this experience with the Rutgers Jazz Ensemble was endlessly educational, and we are extremely thankful for the hospitality that Dr. Branker and the ensemble members extended for the event! Be sure to catch The Rutgers Jazz Ensemble in Nicholas Music Center at their next performance on Friday, December 6th at 7:30pm.
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