Unit outline_

JAZZ1015: Jazz Ear Training 1

Semester 1, 2026 [Normal day] - Sydney

This unit offers a systematic study of all simple intervals up to and including one octave, triadic harmony, four note chords in closed position and voice leading within these concepts, focusing on common harmonic movements that occur in the jazz repertoire.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit Jazz
Credit points 3
Prerequisites
? 
None
Corequisites
? 
None
Prohibitions
? 
None
Assumed knowledge
? 

None

Available to study abroad and exchange students

Yes

Teaching staff

Coordinator Andrew Robertson, andrew.robertson@sydney.edu.au
The census date for this unit availability is 31 March 2026
Type Description Weight Due Length Use of AI
In-person practical, skills, or performance task or test Early Feedback Task Early Feedback task
Brief demonstration of progress - initial course content #earlyfeedbacktask
0% Week 03
Due date: 10 Mar 2026 at 23:59
15 minutes AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO4
Out-of-class quiz Auralia Test
Short ear training test delivered through Auralia software
20% Week 05
Due date: 27 Mar 2026 at 23:59
1 hour AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
In-class quiz Mid-Semester Assessment
Mid-Semester Assessment • Aural identification • Melodic dictation • Harmonic recognition • Short written theory components
30% Week 08
Due date: 21 Apr 2026 at 23:59
1.5 hours AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
In-class quiz End of Semester Class Test
Assessment • Comprehensive aural exam covering: o Intervals, scales, chords o Harmonic progressions o Melodic dictation o Jazz rhythmic recognition
50% Week 13
Due date: 26 May 2026 at 23:59
2 hours AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
early feedback task = early feedback task ?

Early feedback task

This unit includes an early feedback task, designed to give you feedback prior to the census date for this unit. Details are provided in the Canvas site and your result will be recorded in your Marks page. It is important that you actively engage with this task so that the University can support you to be successful in this unit.

Assessment summary

  • Early Feedback Task
  • Auralia Test
  • Class test 1 and 2: It will consist of a written test in which the student will be asked to identify and transcribe exercises performed on the piano by the examiner.

Detailed information for each assessment can be found on Canvas.

Assessment criteria

Marks will be determined by the results of the class test and exam.  The student’s written exams assess all of the required material - recognition of chords, progressions, intervals, and scales.

Assessment criteria for assessments in this unit of study can be found on Canvas in the appropriate folder.

Assessed work will be marked according to these criteria.

For more information see guide to grades.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

You can use generative AI tools for open assessments. Restrictions on AI use apply to secure, supervised assessments used to confirm if students have met specific learning outcomes.

Refer to the assessment table above to see if AI is allowed, for assessments in this unit and check Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks and AI use.

If you use AI, you must always acknowledge it. Misusing AI may lead to a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

  • Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
  • After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

Academic integrity

The University expects students to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

Our website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. This includes advice on how to avoid common breaches of academic integrity. Ensure that you have completed the Academic Honesty Education Module (AHEM) which is mandatory for all commencing coursework students

Penalties for serious breaches can significantly impact your studies and your career after graduation. It is important that you speak with your unit coordinator if you need help with completing assessments.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a simple extension.  The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can’t complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students, AI in Education includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

Support for students

The Support for Students Policy reflects the University’s commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

WK Topic Learning activity Learning outcomes
Week 01 Topics • Course overview and assessment outline • Intervals and the harmonic series • Construction of major scales and church modes • Key centre and tonic: hearing scale degrees relative to tonic Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Topics • Course overview and assessment outline • Intervals and the harmonic series • Construction of major scales and church modes • Key centre and tonic: hearing scale degrees relative to tonic Tutorial (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Week 02 Topics • Church modes: structure, sound, and function • Deriving diatonic triads from the major scale • Cadences and simple progressions (e.g. Pachelbel Canon) • Cycle of fifths progressions: II–V–I; I–VI–II–V; III–VI–II–V • Introduction to Auralia software Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Topics • Church modes: structure, sound, and function • Deriving diatonic triads from the major scale • Cadences and simple progressions (e.g. Pachelbel Canon) • Cycle of fifths progressions: II–V–I; I–VI–II–V; III–VI–II–V • Introduction to Auralia software Tutorial (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Week 03 Topics • Common 7th chords: maj7, min7, dom7, min7♭5 • Inversions of major and minor triads • Guide tones (3rds and 7ths) • Simple melodic dictation using swing rhythms • 4-bar diatonic progressions Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4
Topics • Common 7th chords: maj7, min7, dom7, min7♭5 • Inversions of major and minor triads • Guide tones (3rds and 7ths) • Simple melodic dictation using swing rhythms • 4-bar diatonic progressions Tutorial (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4
Week 04 Topics • 4-bar guide tone tone-rows • Secondary dominants • 12-bar blues and variations • ‘Rhythm Changes’ progression • Repertoire examples: Take the A Train, All of Me Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO4 LO5
Topics • 4-bar guide tone tone-rows • Secondary dominants • 12-bar blues and variations • ‘Rhythm Changes’ progression • Repertoire examples: Take the A Train, All of Me Tutorial (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO4 LO5
Week 05 Topics • Additional 4-bar jazz progressions • More complex melodic dictation • Triad inversions (major and minor) • Bass line and guide tone singing Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Topics • Additional 4-bar jazz progressions • More complex melodic dictation • Triad inversions (major and minor) • Bass line and guide tone singing Tutorial (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Week 06 Topics • Less common 7th chords: dim(maj7), maj7♯5, dom7♭5, dom7♭9 • Harmonic analysis of All of Me • Minor key harmony: Summertime, Angel Eyes • More advanced melodic dictation Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO5
Topics • Less common 7th chords: dim(maj7), maj7♯5, dom7♭5, dom7♭9 • Harmonic analysis of All of Me • Minor key harmony: Summertime, Angel Eyes • More advanced melodic dictation Tutorial (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO5
Week 07 Topics • Review of all previous progressions • Progressions not beginning on tonic (ii7, II7, IVmaj7) • Chord transcription from recordings (e.g. Coltrane Ballads) • Introduction to melodic minor, harmonic minor, diminished scales Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO4 LO5
Topics • Review of all previous progressions • Progressions not beginning on tonic (ii7, II7, IVmaj7) • Chord transcription from recordings (e.g. Coltrane Ballads) • Introduction to melodic minor, harmonic minor, diminished scales Tutorial (1 hr) LO1 LO4 LO5
Week 08 Mid-Semester Assessment • Aural identification • Melodic dictation • Harmonic recognition • Short written theory components Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Mid-Semester Assessment • Aural identification • Melodic dictation • Harmonic recognition • Short written theory components Tutorial (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Week 09 Topics • Feedback and revision on Week 8 test results • 7th chord voicings: 1-5-7-3; 1-7-3-5 (maj7, min7, dim7, dom7, altered dom7) • Introduction to drop-2 concept • Altering diatonic harmony: min7 → min7♭5, IV major → iv minor Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO5
Topics • Feedback and revision on Week 8 test results • 7th chord voicings: 1-5-7-3; 1-7-3-5 (maj7, min7, dim7, dom7, altered dom7) • Introduction to drop-2 concept • Altering diatonic harmony: min7 → min7♭5, IV major → iv minor Tutorial (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO5
Week 11 Topics • Complex progressions with diatonic roots: o Repertoire: I Should Care, That Old Feeling, The Man I Love • Advanced melodic dictation Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO4 LO5
Topics • Complex progressions with diatonic roots: o Repertoire: I Should Care, That Old Feeling, The Man I Love • Advanced melodic dictation Tutorial (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO4 LO5
Week 12 Topics • Review of all semester content • Practice examples for final assessment • Integrated aural–theory exercises Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Topics • Review of all semester content • Practice examples for final assessment • Integrated aural–theory exercises Tutorial (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Week 13 End of Semester Assessment Comprehensive aural exam covering: - Intervals, scales, chords - Melodic dictation - Jazz rhythmic recognition Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
End of Semester Assessment Comprehensive aural exam covering: - Intervals, scales, chords - Melodic dictation - Jazz rhythmic recognition Tutorial (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5

Attendance and class requirements

Attendance: Students are expected to attend a minimum of 90% of timetabled activities for a unit of study, unless granted exemption by the Dean, Head of School or professor most concerned. The Dean, Head of School or professor most concerned may determine that a student fails a unit of study because of inadequate attendance. Alternatively, at their discretion, they may set additional assessment items where attendance is lower than 90%.

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 3 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 60-75 hours of student effort in total.

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

  • LO1. Increase aural skills and use this understanding to deepen your ability to listen, understand and perform in jazz and improvised contexts.
  • LO2. Identify intervals by ear within an octave
  • LO3. Identify by ear all major modal scales
  • LO4. Melodic dictation of diatonic melodic phrases up to 8-bars in length
  • LO5. Identify by ear diatonic chord progressions of up to 8-bars in length

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all University of Sydney graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1 Depth of disciplinary expertise

Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.

GQ2 Critical thinking and problem solving

Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.

GQ3 Oral and written communication

Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.

GQ4 Information and digital literacy

Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.

GQ5 Inventiveness

Generating novel ideas and solutions.

GQ6 Cultural competence

Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.

GQ7 Interdisciplinary effectiveness

Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.

GQ8 Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity

An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one’s personal and professional selves in an ethical context.

GQ9 Influence

Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes Graduate qualities
GQ1 GQ2 GQ3 GQ4 GQ5 GQ6 GQ7 GQ8 GQ9

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

Changes to the number of assessments and weightings has occurred in the 2025 program.

More information can be found on Canvas.

Disclaimer

Important: the University of Sydney regularly reviews units of study and reserves the right to change the units of study available annually. To stay up to date on available study options, including unit of study details and availability, refer to the relevant handbook.

To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an online glossary.