Please submit a digital video recording which must include the following (in this order):

A) Perform with a combo on the 12-bar blues piece Billy’s Bounce by Charlie Parker in medium tempo which must include playing time for two or more choruses behind a soloist and one or more choruses of a drum solo. Sticks and/or brushes are acceptable. Click here to download the lead sheet.

B) Perform a medium or slow-tempo piece demonstrating your ability to perform with brushes. (No original compositions).

C) Perform an up-tempo tune in any jazz style, except blues, which must include at least one or more choruses of playing time behind a soloist and two or more choruses of trading fours or eights. (Composers such as Thelonious Monk, John Coltrane, Miles Davis, Chick Corea, Pat Metheny, Herbie Hancock, George Gershwin,Tito Puente. No original compositions.)

Your submission should demonstrate a full range of technical skill and interpretive ability, demonstrate the ability to play in a variety of jazz styles and show your particular interests and strengths. Sticks and brushes should be clearly distinguishable in the recording.

Each selection should be 3-5 minutes in length. All must be played in combo format (minimum: piano or guitar, bass and drums) with either a live band or a pre-recorded format. The instrument to be judged should predominate.

Guidelines for Recording your Audition

• Use a fixed point of view for your camera including all band members. Shoot straight on, leaving the camera in one location. Do not pan, move the camera.
• Use a good quality microphone and check for good balance and blend. Edits between pieces are allowed.
• Do not make video edits within a piece. No sound enhancements are allowed.
• There should be short pauses between selections.

Please note that the application fee is non-refundable even in the case of injury. You also must be free of injury to participate in YoungArts Week if you are chosen as a Finalist.