Fall 2026 (3 sections)

RSVP / DETAILS

Explore the compositions of John Coltrane, Thelonious Monk, Wayne Shorter, and other major jazz composers in an advanced small-group setting. The ensemble focuses on challenging repertoire that develops a strong command of form, harmony, rhythm, improvisation, and ensemble interaction.

Participants will learn primarily through rehearsal and performance, working through the musical details that give each composition its character while developing the skills needed to navigate complex material with greater fluency and confidence.

This class emphasizes:

• Rehearsing and internalizing essential grooves and forms

• Developing advanced improvisational fluency

• Refining rhythmic interpretation and time feel

• Strengthening ensemble cohesion and musical communication

• Interpreting challenging repertoire with stylistic awareness

Sections

Section 1
Tuesdays 8:15–9:45 pm
9/22–12/1
No class 11/24
Performance: 12/8

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

Section 3
Saturdays 10–11:30 am
9/26–12/5
No class 11/28
Performance: 12/12

Glenn Richman, $475
(in-person)

Prerequisite

Open to advanced instrumentalists with substantial ensemble experience, strong fluency in jazz harmony and improvisation, and comfort navigating complex forms, harmonies, and tempos.

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 Glenn Richman

Glenn Richman is a bassist, arranger, and educator with decades of experience performing with jazz artists including Bobby Hutcherson, Jon Hendricks, Jimmy Heath, Cedar Walton, Slide Hampton, and Chet Baker. From 2007 until Hutcherson’s passing in 2016, Richman was a core member of the Bobby Hutcherson Quartet and appears on Hutcherson’s final album, Wise One (2009).

As an educator, Richman brings extensive practical experience to the classroom. He has taught at Chabot College, the Brubeck Institute, and the California Jazz Conservatory, and currently serves on the faculty at UC Berkeley and the Jazzschool. His teaching focuses on bass performance, jazz theory, harmony, and ensemble training, all rooted in real-world musical experience.