Bloom school of Jazz

[Milesguy83]

If anyone lives in the chicago land area, and wants to get together with other people-young and old- to play, learn and experience jazz, the Bloom school is for you.

It is a totally great approach to playing. David Bloom, the founder of the school for over 25 years teaches you how to listen to the masters, play like them, and actually SAY something with your solos.

He has a broad range of different classes for beginners to pros, and it's just a great experience for anyone looking to become a centered, thoughtful, and SOULFUL improvisor.

Here's the site:

http://www.bloomschoolofjazz.com

p.s.- The site is currently under construction even though it doesn't say. The newly developed site should be up in a few days-

[jhatpro]

i notice their full year program is $3,400 for two, two-hour sessions per week. i realize that's only about $18 an hour, assuming 48 weeks, but it's still a pretty good pop.

have you tried them? are they truly worth that kind of investment?

generally, how many in the class? what level are the players?

how are these sessions different than any good rehearsal band session?
_________________
Jim Hatfield
Glen Ellyn, Illinois

"Unfortunately, music is not my first language."

[Milesguy83]

I have had 2 sessions at the Bloom a school, and I feel that you can really take a lot out of what David Bloom has to offer. I Personally think it's worth it. Not only do you have 2 hour sessions, but he records every single one from his studio, and you can take home a cd of the progress you've made every week. Not only that, but you have the opportunity to play at Jazz clubs such as The jazz Showcase and the Green mill. I know the prices may be steep, but I know that I was in a class for the summer at a reduced price....I recommend either Calling the Bloom School, or emailing David bloom or even stop by. Talk to him, ask him your questions and he'd be happy to answer them. You might even just want to stop by and see whats going on down there to see if that might be something you'd want to do.

Generally, The classes consist of a jazz combo-piano, bass, drums, guiter(sometimes), and usually a horn or two. I'm not exactly sure how he works the talent level, but i'm assuming you'd have to play for him at least once so he can put you in a combo with people of your same ability.


In these improv sessions, you are encouraged to write your own tunes, learn new ones....within the classes you work towards concerts, but you learn techniques to shed tunes, learn new improv vehicles, but I'd say the most unique thing is David Bloom's personal views on different techniques you can use in your playing to actually make an interesting solo. He'll teach you how to SAY something, not just Blow through the changes.

But the facilities are nice...he has the main combo room with mic's everywhere that lead to his recording studio next door. There are also many other rooms for groups to get together and play. He always tells his students that they are welcome to come over and get together and just play ANY TIME they want to. He'll just give you a key and tell you to lock the door when you leave, it doesn't matter what time. He just loves jazz, and loves to teach people how to make great music.

Hope this is helpful- I highly recomend talking to Either David himself or someone at the Bloom school to help answer your questions more thourougly. It might not be the right place for you, but I have noticed DRAMATIC improvements to my playing over the last year because of this class-

Take care-

Marty

[jhatpro]

thanks for the info! sounds like an excellent program!
_________________
Jim Hatfield
Glen Ellyn, Illinois

"Unfortunately, music is not my first language."

[Milesguy83]

The Bloom school site has just been redone. You should re check it out. Look at the info for the open house on August 27th, if you want to stop by with your axe and see whats happening-