Ensemble dedicated to the performance, interpretation and study of Afro-Latin music and its fusion with North American jazz. Repertoire includes the music of Brazil, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Peru and Argentina, as well as the United States. Idioms studied include Latin Jazz, Danzon, Son Montuno, Samba, Bossa, Traditional and Modern Salsa, Timba, Lando, and Candombe. African roots of the music are also presented including songs and rhythms from the Lucumi and Arara traditions. Focus is placed on learning rhythms, associated syncopations and also clave phrasing. One weekly rehearsal and a concert are required per quarter. Other playing opportunities available at the discretion of the group. Regular openings for brass/wind players, drummers, percussionists, pianists, bassists, and vocalists. Guest openings on violin, guitar and vibraphone. Inclusion of other instruments at the discretion of the director. Members should have basic reading ability and some related ensemble experience (e.g, jazz band). Ability to read and play complex syncopations are mandatory. Percussionists with experience in bongo, congas, timbales and pandeiro desired. Vocalists with fluency or exposure to Spanish and/or Portuguese also preferred. May be repeat for credit. Zero unit enrollment option available with instructor permission. See website: (http://music.stanford.edu) for policy and procedure. By enrolling in this course you are giving consent for the video and audio recording and distribution of your image and performance for use by any entity at Stanford University. While COVID restrictions are in effect, class will be a mixture of live sectionals, interactive sessions over Zoom and Jacktrip, and a possible live stream concert.
Satisfactory/No Credit
Ensemble dedicated to the performance, interpretation and study of Afro-Latin music and its fusion with North American jazz. Repertoire includes the music of Brazil, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Peru and Argentina, as well as the United States. Idioms studied include Latin Jazz, Danzon, Son Montuno, Samba, Bossa, Traditional and Modern Salsa, Timba, Lando, and Candombe. African roots of the music are also presented including songs and rhythms from the Lucumi and Arara traditions. Focus is placed on learning rhythms, associated syncopations and also clave phrasing. One weekly rehearsal and a concert are required per quarter. Other playing opportunities available at the discretion of the group. Regular openings for brass/wind players, drummers, percussionists, pianists, bassists, and vocalists. Guest openings on violin, guitar and vibraphone. Inclusion of other instruments at the discretion of the director. Members should have basic reading ability and some related ensemble experience (e.g, jazz band). Ability to read and play complex syncopations are mandatory. Percussionists with experience in bongo, congas, timbales and pandeiro desired. Vocalists with fluency or exposure to Spanish and/or Portuguese also preferred. May be repeat for credit. Zero unit enrollment option available with instructor permission. See website: (http://music.stanford.edu) for policy and procedure. By enrolling in this course you are giving consent for the video and audio recording and distribution of your image and performance for use by any entity at Stanford University. While COVID restrictions are in effect, class will be a mixture of live sectionals, interactive sessions over Zoom and Jacktrip, and a possible live stream concert.
Offered in Autumn 2025, Winter 2026, Spring 2026 at Stanford University.