Tritone Jazz Camps
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Tritone Jazz Fantasy Camps?
Tritone camps are jam-packed weeks of playing, learning, and laughing for adult jazz musicians of all skill levels. Coached by professional jazz musician/educators, instrumentalists play in a small combo, a big band, jam sessions, and concerts. Singers spend virtually the entire day with our vocal faculty, learning both art and trade. All campers perform in concerts on the last two nights of camp. Most campers go away with a sense of satisfaction and a whole lot of stuff to work on before next summer.
What instruments are appropriate for jazz?
Hey, if Steve Turre can win awards playing conch shells, who are we to say? Specifically, we’re looking for saxophonists/flutists, trumpeters, trombonists, pianists, guitarists, bassists, drummers, vibraphone players and singers. Violinists and harmonica players have also had a great time. Bagpipe players might want to think twice.
How do I know if I’m good enough?
Camps are open to all singers and instrumentalists 21 and over. Our goal is to help you get to the “next level,” whatever that might be. Campers of all ability levels have learned a lot and have had a great time. Combos are stratified by ability level, and teaching methods vary — some instructors hand out charts, others teach by ear. If you’re planning to play in big band, ability to read charts at tempo is a real plus. If you can keep up with a typical A-A-B-A jazz tune, you’ll be fine. If you can blow a decent solo to an Aebersold CD, you’ll thrive.
What kind of jazz will I be learning and playing?
Tritone is primarily mainstream-jazz oriented. Most of the music taught in classes comes from the “Great American Songbook,” but to a lesser extent, we also accommodate Trad/Dixie, fusion, funk, and avant-garde. Please call with specific questions.
What will I be doing during the week?
A typical Tritone day goes something like this:
8:00 am — Breakfast (for those on the meal plan)
9:00-9:30 am — Rhythming with the percussion faculty drummer
9:30-11:30 am — Combo playing and improvisation coaching
11:30-12:00 pm — Free time (practice, nap, take a walk)
12:00-1:00 pm — Lunch (for those on the meal plan)
1:00-1:30 pm — Purposeful Listening (faculty led)
1:30-3:00 pm — Big band rehearsal
3:00-4:15 pm — Jammin’ with the Faculty master class
4:15-5:15 pm — Jazz theory or Instrument master class (alternate days)
5:30-7:00 pm — Dinner (for those on meal plan)
7:00-10:30 pm — Faculty concert, jam session, or camper concert
What should I bring?
Your instrument, along with everything you need to play it (reeds, extra strings, amplifiers, etc.). Pianos and keyboards are generally available for either use or rental. Drummers are encouraged to bring their own set, or at least sticks and cymbals, but call first if you have questions because drum sets are sometimes available for use or rental. Staff paper, a fake book, and some kind of recording device are also helpful.
How can I get more information?
Leave a message for Bob at 585-739-1500. He’ll be happy to get back to you within 24 hours to answer any questions you may have. Or Contact Us.