Auditions for Undergraduate 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 CD only. (There are no in-person auditions.)

Before submitting an audition CD you must first

1. Complete an application to William Paterson University, available HERE.
2. Complete an application to the Music Department, available HERE.

Audition Tape/CD Requirements

Auditions for the jazz program are conducted via CD only.  No Cassette, 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 improvised 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 improvise over chord changes.

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 vocalise at the beginning of tape. Performance should demonstrate ability to scat as well as understanding of the lyric.