Mondays 6:30–8 pm, 9/21–11/30; No class 11/23; Performance: 12/7

RSVP / DETAILS

Explore the music of Wayne Shorter, the influential saxophonist and composer whose work helped shape modern jazz through his recordings with Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers, the Miles Davis Quintet, Weather Report, and his own groups. This advanced ensemble focuses on selections from his small-group recordings, with attention to the compositional structures, harmonic language, rhythmic character, and improvisational approaches that define his music.

Participants will work on:

• Interpreting complex forms and harmonic movement

• Developing phrasing and improvisational ideas within Shorter’s compositions

• Strengthening ensemble cohesion and creative interplay

• Refining rhythmic feel, dynamics, and group communication

• Approaching the repertoire with both stylistic awareness and individual expression

Mondays 6:30–8 pm
9/21–11/30
No class 11/23
Performance: 12/7
James Mahone, $475
(in-person)

Prerequisite

Open to advanced jazz musicians with substantial ensemble experience who are comfortable improvising over complex forms and harmony.

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 James Mahone

James Mahone is a saxophonist, composer, and educator whose career spans the United States and Japan. He began his musical journey in Monterey, California, and studied classical and jazz saxophone at California State University, Northridge under Bill Caulkins, performing with the university’s award-winning wind ensembles and jazz big bands.

After relocating to Los Angeles, Mahone became a member of the acclaimed jazz quintet Black Note, recording for Columbia and GRP/Impulse and touring nationally and internationally, including appearances at the Montreal International Jazz Festival, North Sea Jazz Festival, Pori Jazz Festival, and Umbria Jazz Festival.

He later continued his studies in New York City at The New School, working with Garry Dial, Billy Harper, Benny Powell, and Charles Tolliver while performing extensively and maintaining a private teaching studio. Mahone also spent several years performing and teaching in Tokyo, Japan, where he was active as a recording artist and educator, including serving as a saxophone instructor at St. Maur International School.

Now based in the Bay Area, he performs regularly with many of the region’s leading musicians while continuing his work as an educator.