All jazz auditions last approximately 12-18 minutes. The CYSO Excerpt Lists can be found at the bottom of this page. Memorization of music is not required. All auditions are performed without accompaniment, except the improv portion which will be performed w/provided backing track or pianist.
Saxophones
- Students may audition on either Alto, Tenor, or Bari Saxophone. You must choose one.
- All excerpts provided by CYSO
- Solo improvisation on an F Blues and Rhythm Changes in B flat (performed with provided backing track or pianist)
- Students will be asked to sight read one piece.
- If you wish to be considered on an auxiliary woodwind instrument (flute, clarinet, etc) prepare a single excerpt on that instrument of your choice in addition to the materials above prepared on either Alto, Tenor, or Bari Saxophone.
Trombones
- Students may audition on either tenor or bass trombone. You must choose one.
- All excerpts provided by CYSO. For Lester Leaps In and Venus and Serena, you must choose one range option (1, 2, or 3).
- Solo improvisation on an F Blues and Rhythm Changes in B flat (performed with provided backing track or pianist)
- Students will be asked to sight read one piece.
- If you wish to be considered on an auxiliary instrument (tuba, etc) prepare a single excerpt on that instrument of your choice in addition to the materials above prepared on trumpet.
Trumpets
- Students may audition for either Section Trumpet or Lead Trumpet. You must choose one for the audition but could be assigned either if accepted.
- All excerpts provided by CYSO. For The Days of Wine and Roses, you must choose one range option (1, 2, or 3).
- Solo improvisation on an F Blues and Rhythm Changes in B flat (performed with provided backing track or pianist)
- Students will be asked to sight read one piece.
- If you wish to be considered on an auxiliary instrument (flugelhorn, etc) prepare a single excerpt on that instrument of your choice in addition to the materials above prepared on trumpet.
Rhythm Section
- Students may audition on either Piano, Bass, Drum Set, or Guitar. You must choose one.
- All excerpts provided by CYSO.
- Solo improvisation on F Blues (performed with provided backing track or pianist).
- Students will be asked to sight read one piece.
- Piano/Guitar/Bass: Play melodies with chord changes and solos in marked areas
- Drums: Play time while implying the melody in hits around the kit.
- Drummer who wish to be considered on an auxiliary instrument (vibes, etc) prepare a single excerpt on that instrument of your choice in addition to the materials above prepared on Drum Set.
