Music Department

Undergraduate Auditions for Jazz Degree Programs

The audition requirements on this page are for the following degree programs:

B.M. in Jazz Studies and Performance
B.M. in Jazz Studies and Performance, Music Education Track
B.M. in Jazz Studies and Performance, Music Management Track
B.M. in Jazz Studies and Performance, Sound Engineering Arts Track

Applicants to the Classical programs should see the Classical Audition Requirements page.

Auditions for all Jazz Studies Track programs are by audio cassette tape or CD only.

In order to be considered for admission into the Jazz Program, these materials must be completed and returned:

• A completed WPUNJ application form
  
• A completed music department application form
  
• An audition tape or CD. (There are no in-person auditions.)

Audition Tape/CD Requirements

Auditions for the jazz program are conducted via CD or cassette tape only.  No DVD or VHS formats will be accepted.  Audition CD's must be postmarked by February 1.   Audition recordings cannot be returned .

The recorded performance should demonstrate ability to play within a group and as a soloist. Perform a minimum of three tunes:

1. One up-tempo tune such as "Cherokee," "Ornithology," "It Could Happen To You," "Just Friends" or a similar selection
   
2. One medium-tempo tune such as "All the Things You Are," "Out of Nowhere," "Have You Met Miss Jones?" or a similar selection;
   
3. One ballad such as "Body and Soul," "In A Sentimental Mood," "I Can't Get Started" or a similar selection.
   
4. One chorus within the presentation of the medium tempo and up-tempo tunes should be performed entirely unaccompanied.

Special Audition Notes:

Piano, Guitar and Mallet Instruments: Performance should demonstrate ability to comp as well as to solo. One of the required selections must be performed entirely unaccompanied.

Drum Set: Performance should demonstrate ability to use brushes as well as sticks. Play through the head of the up- tempo tune unaccompanied, outlining rhythmic structure of the melody.

Bass: Performance should demonstrate ability to construct a walking bass line and should showcase strengths as an improviser. Acoustic bassists should demonstrate use of the bow.

Vocalists: If currently studying voice, include a vocalize at the beginning of tape. Performance should demonstrate ability to scat as well as understanding of the lyric.