College Program Grad Lenard Simpson Leads Composition Workshop for UCLA Global Jazz Studies

Saxophonist and Institute teaching artist Lenard Simpson recently conducted a composition workshop for students in The UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music Global Jazz Studies program. Simpson, a Class of 2020 graduate of the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz Performance at The UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music, provided illuminating explanations of the importance of composition for working jazz musicians, as well as practical pointers for developing a unique compositional voice.

Watch a few brief snippets from the session below:

As part of the Institute’s ongoing virtual education program offerings, the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz Performance at The UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music is proud to connect UCLA students with some of the most innovative voices in jazz for an intimate workshop series during the 2020-21 academic year. Guest lecturers have included acclaimed saxophonist Walter Smith III, guitarist John Storie and Institute West Coast Director Daniel Seeff.

About the College Program

The Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz Performance is a tuition-free, two-year program that accepts one ensemble of musicians for each class. All of the students receive full scholarships, as well as stipends to cover their monthly living expenses. The students study both individually and as a small group, receiving personal mentoring, ensemble coaching, and lectures on the jazz tradition. They are encouraged to experiment in expanding jazz in new directions through their compositions and performances. The program is in residence at the prestigious UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music.