Tuesdays 6:30–8 pm, 9/22–12/1; No class 11/24; Performance: 12/8

RSVP / DETAILS

Develop a strong command of funk rhythm, groove, and ensemble playing through the music of James Brown, Prince, Sly and the Family Stone, Tower of Power, Stevie Wonder, Earth, Wind & Fire, The Meters, Herbie Hancock, and others. Open to vocalists, horn players, and rhythm section instruments, the ensemble focuses on locking into the groove and developing the feel, precision, and rhythmic awareness essential to funk performance.

Participants will work on:

• The rhythmic foundations of funk

• Feel, articulation, and stylistic interpretation

• Developing a strong pocket through precise timing and ensemble cohesion

• Section interplay and rhythmic communication

• Dynamics and arrangement within a groove-based ensemble

Prerequisites

• Proficiency on your instrument or voice

• Familiarity with funk styles and rhythm section interaction

• Ability to maintain steady time in groove-based settings

Tuesdays 6:30–8 pm
9/22–12/1
No class 11/24
Performance: 12/8
Daniel Parenti, $475
(in-person)

Important Notes

• All ensembles culminate in a live, free performance.

• Please confirm you can attend the performance date before registering.

• A placement audition is required for new students.

How to Register

Please complete the online Ensemble Application Form below. Once we’ve received your application and, for new students, your audition recording, we’ll review your information and contact you to confirm placement. Once your placement is confirmed, we’ll send you a link to submit tuition payment. No payment is required until placement is confirmed.

Application form and audition guidelines:
Jazzschool Ensemble Application Form and Audition Guidelines

About Daniel Parenti

Daniel Parenti is a bassist, composer, and educator with a wide-ranging performance background that includes collaborations with jazz artists such as Michael Brecker, Rosemary Clooney, and Lionel Hampton. A prolific recording artist, he has released six albums of original material and remains active in the Bay Area music scene.

His performance résumé also includes work with Tommy Igoe, Billy Johnson (Santana), Frank Martin (Narada Michael Walden), Joel Smith (Walter Hawkins), and Lorn Leber (Jerry Garcia Band). Known for his deep sense of groove and command of modern jazz styles, Parenti brings a practical, performance-based approach to helping students strengthen contemporary rhythm section playing, improvisation, and ensemble interaction.