Performance Handbook
Senior Jazz Recital Audition requirements:
(Updated August 2024)
Students who wish to perform a senior jazz recital (or include jazz in their program) must follow these regulations:
a. Recitals should present a stylistically and historically diverse program of jazz repertoire chosen in conjunction with the student鈥檚 principal instructor. The range of styles might include Swing Era, Bebop/Hard Bop, American Songbook, Latin Jazz, Jazz Waltz/Odd-Meter, Blues/Rhythm Changes, Ballad, and/or Contemporary/ECM.
b. Students must provide parts for all pieces they plan to include on their program, including parts for band members (transposed as necessary).
c. Students must rehearse with their entire group prior to the audition.
d. The audition must showcase at least half the full recital program, including substantial improvisations by which the panel can assess the student鈥檚 abilities.
e. Lead performers must memorize the chord progressions for improvised solo sections (drummers are encouraged but not required to meet this requirement). For standard repertoire, lead performers must also memorize melodies, however they may use sheet music for originals and arrangements as needed.
f. Both the recital and the audition should feature the primary performer. Other band members should limit the length of their improvisations.
g. The student鈥檚 principal instructor must be invited to the audition. If unable to attend, the instructor should prepare a letter describing the student鈥檚 abilities and level of preparation. Students should also furnish their principal instructor with a recording of the audition within one day after the hearing.
h. Students must consult the concert manager to reserve a recital date. Only the concert manager can write the reservation in the Music Department calendar.