Wednesdays 8:15–9:45 pm, 9/23–12/2; No class 11/25; Performance: 12/12

RSVP / DETAILS

Explore the intersection of jazz, rock, funk, and other contemporary influences in this advanced ensemble for experienced players. Repertoire draws from electric jazz, fusion, groove-based contemporary jazz, and rhythmically adventurous modern music, with an emphasis on improvisation, ensemble interaction, and developing a strong command of complex material.

Participants will work with:

• Complex forms and extended harmony

• Layered grooves and rhythmic structures

• Odd and mixed meters

• Improvisation across changing harmonic and rhythmic contexts

• Ensemble interaction, dynamics, texture, and form

The ensemble emphasizes dynamic interaction, creative risk-taking, sonic exploration, and the collective shaping of texture and form.

Open to experienced jazz musicians on all instruments who are comfortable with advanced harmony and rhythm and interested in exploring genre-blending repertoire through rehearsal and performance.

Wednesdays 8:15–9:45 pm
9/23–12/2
No class 11/25
Performance: 12/12
Kai Eckhardt, $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 Kai Eckhardt

Kai Eckhardt is a German-born bassist and composer. Raised in Germany and Liberia, West Africa, he moved to the United States to attend Berklee College of Music, graduating with honors in 1987. Soon after, he joined John McLaughlin’s trio with Trilok Gurtu, an influential group recognized for its fusion of modern jazz and South Indian classical music. The trio toured internationally and released two major albums, including Live at the Royal Festival Hall, which reached the top of the Billboard jazz charts.

Following a period in Europe, Kai returned to the international stage, performing and recording with artists including Billy Cobham, Stanley Clarke, Wayne Shorter, Patrice Rushen, Dewey Redman, Donald Byrd, Al Di Meola, and Dave Weckl. He has also collaborated extensively in Turkey and India and has presented clinics and master classes worldwide at institutions including Berklee College of Music, Musicians Institute, Bruckner Conservatory, and Amsterdam Conservatory.

With more than 200 recordings to his credit, Kai is perhaps best known as co-leader of the genre-defying group Garaj Mahal, which has released nine albums and performed extensively throughout the United States and Canada. He currently leads the UC Berkeley World Music Ensemble, remains active as a recording artist and touring musician, and lives with his family in Berkeley, California.