The second workshop in a series of four as part of the PJCE’s Grasshoppers Student Composer Mentorship program.
These free workshops are aimed toward new and experienced composers interested in learning how to properly score and arrange parts for jazz instruments. Classes will be one hour long and led by accomplished, Portland-based musicians. Attendees can expect to learn how to write playable and well-notated parts for the instrument family covered in the workshops. Each teacher will share what’ve they’ve learned as a seasoned performer and composer.
Ken Ollis is a drummer and composer from Portland, OR. Ken regularly performs in collaboration with painters, poets, dancers, and cinematographers. His compositions are featured in the repertoire of the Paxselin Quartet, the Portland Jazz Composers Ensemble, PDX Ensemble, The Chamber of Commerce as well as his own groups. His latest release is entitled “Senses Sharpened” on the PJCE Records label. It is comprised of all Ollis’ originals that draw upon influences, and techniques, borrowed from Messiaen, Webern and Tim Berne, along with several original techniques.
He currently teaches in the music department at Portland State University and George Fox University, and has taught a multitude of clinics throughout the country.