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Jazz Auditions

Jazz Audition Information

Admission into the Cal Poly Jazz program is determined through a relaxed audition process. All students who have experience performing in a jazz ensemble, regardless of major, are encouraged to schedule an audition. 

Spring quarter 2024 auditions - there are openings in the Jazz Combos: 

Reach out to the following if you have questions about particular jazz groups, otherwise more detail is included in the sections below.

Audition Scheduling

All students auditioning must complete the Jazz Personnel Audition Form. The 2023-24 procedures continue to include a couple options to maximize access to students. Audition results, including ensemble and chair assignments, will be distributed via email after auditions have concluded. 

Audition Appointment Procedure: 

  1. Complete the Jazz Personnel Audition Form 
  2. Book an in-person audition time via the scheduling tool at the end of the form.  Available slots can be viewed by clicking on the calendar in the Bookings tool. 

Jazz Combos Audition Requirements

University Jazz Band Audition Requirements

  1. Prepare “Tribute to Elvis Costello” for your instrument from the folder ‘Jazz Audition Materials Winter 2024’ provided below (all parts are in this folder, so print out only the part(s) you need for your audition). An mp3 of the chart is also in that folder.  Use it to properly prepare for this portion of your audition. 
    1. All trumpet players will audition on the PDF named ‘Tpt_Salute to EC’.  Trumpet players interested in playing lead will also prepare the ‘LeadTpt_Salute to EC’ PDF.  
    2. Drummers should bring sticks and brushes.  A drum kit will be provided.  You will be asked to perform various styles (swing, funk, latin, waltz, ballad) 
    3. An upright bass will be provided for bassists if you need one.  Bassists will need to provide your own electric bass.   
  2. For the second performance component of the audition, all students are asked to bring a prepared piece of music that shows off your skills/talents (I.E. – a transcription, jazz etude, jazz standard, etc.) 
  3. For the third performance component of the audition, students will improvise over a Bb or F blues (backing tracks will be provided and are included in the audition materials for practice).  
  4. Here is the link to the folder that contains all PDFs for the first performance component of the audition, plus an mp3 of the chart: Jazz Audition Materials Winter 2024 

School Instruments

Cal Poly maintains an inventory of high-quality instruments for use by students. This is especially useful for performers of the larger (or more expensive) instruments such as upright bass, or baritone sax.  However, it is also a great resource for great players who relied on high-quality, school-owned instruments while in high school.

Students who need an instrument for auditions should contact the applicable ensemble director as soon as possible. The Cal Poly Music Use Fee is $20 per quarter, and this can be paid online via CP Portal. Once paid, students must forward the receipt to the ensemble director to ensure the department can update the checkout request. An instrument may be temporarily issued for the audition, and then permanently checked-out or those students selected to participate in one of the jazz bands. (Note: Students who need to use a school instrument may wish to sign-up for one of the later audition appointments in order to have as much practice time as possible on their new instrument.)

Class Enrollment

Students participating in our performing ensembles receive one unit of academic credit by enrolling in either MU 170 MTWF 11:10am-12pm (University Jazz Band) or MU 171 for Jazz Combos or Vocal Jazz Ensemble (different section numbers).

Don't enroll until audition results have been announced. members will be given instructions on how to add the class (online) with a permission number provided by the director.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. I have been playing for years, but I have never performed an audition. Do you have any advice?

It is not unusual for new students to perform their very first audition here at Cal Poly. We are eager to welcome all capable musicians to our bands. The audition packets are designed to provide an excerpt appropriate for every performer, from those who have taken lessons throughout high school to those talented and motivated players who only performed in their school band.

Choose excerpts that are good for you. Also, make sure that you have taken time to practice; if you are prepared, you will be a lot less nervous! Finally, remember that the person hearing your audition genuinely wants you to succeed. Among our goals during the audition is to learn about you as a person and as a performer.

If you have questions about your excerpts (rhythms, notation, etc.), please feel free to contact us. One of the directors will be happy to answer your questions.

  1. What should I wear for the audition?

There are no requirements with regard to attire during auditions. We want you to be comfortable.

  1. Where can I practice once I am at Cal Poly?

The Music Building has several practice rooms on the first floor. Generally speaking, these rooms are available for use by music students who have paid the music use fee.

However, the practice rooms will be open the week before fall quarter classes begin and through the first week since many students are preparing for auditions.

Early morning and evening are when the rooms are best available. (Please note that the Music Building is open until approximately 10:00 p.m. most nights.)

You may also use these rooms to warm-up prior to your audition. If none are available before your audition, please see one of the directors in Room 210 and they will find you an alternative location.

  1. Do you have any more audition advice?

The best advice is to “be prepared” and “be yourself”. The directors are eager to hear your best playing and wish you the best.

  • Practice with a metronome: we are listening for good rhythm.
  • Practice with a tuner: we are listening for good pitch.
  • Practice with your favorite player in mind: we are listening for beautiful sound.
  • Never begin your audition with an apology.
  • Demonstrate your ability to communicate musically.
  • Maintain a positive appearance even if you do not play well.
  • Be yourself.

 Performance Schedule

The primary concert schedule is posted on the Music Department website.

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