In order to be invited to audition in New York City, all Jazz Composition applicants must first submit scores and an edited recording of their work for prescreening, as well as a Performance Review recording demonstrating their ability to perform on their instrument or voice. Please find information on how to upload prescreening materials here. All prescreening materials must be uploaded by December 1st. Requirements for these submissions are outlined below.
Present at least four pieces, including three for small ensemble (3-10 instruments) and one for large ensemble (10 or more instruments). One of the four pieces must include a vocal part or a vocal ensemble. A MIDI-realized work is optional. Additionally, applicants must submit an 8-10 minute edited recording of all submitted pieces which includes only the written (composed) portions of their work. Improvised sections are not to be included in this recording. This recording should be accompanied by a PDF copy of each of the scores represented on the recording (edited to reflect the recording). Other scores may be submitted as well.
Present at least four large ensemble pieces. At least one of the four can be for studio orchestra or a chamber-sized ensemble. One of the four pieces must include a vocal part or a vocal ensemble. A MIDI-realized work is optional. Additionally, applicants must submit a 10-12 minute edited recording of all submitted pieces which includes only the written (composed) portions of their work. Improvised sections are not to be included in this recording. This recording should be accompanied by a PDF copy of each of the scores represented on the recording (edited to reflect the recording). Other scores may be submitted as well.
Performance Review recordings must be uploaded via www.musiccas.com. This recording must include all of the repertoire listed below. It is not required that the format be a professional or studio recording, but the sound quality must be as good as possible. Repertoire must demonstrate the ability to improvise and play with a rhythm section, using a live band or play-along recording.
Jazz Composition applicants who are invited to audition, based on prescreening results, must complete a two-part process (an exam and an audition/interview), which takes place over a two-day period. There is no performance component to the exam or the audition/interview process for jazz composers.
Applicants are required to take a written entrance examination on various theoretical and practical matters pertaining to musical composition. The exam also includes a composition assignment. A piano will be provided for applicants’ use during the exam. The duration of the exam will be 90 minutes for undergraduate applicants and 3 hours for graduate applicants.
The following day, applicants will be required to interview with the jazz composition faculty. At that time they will present three copies of each of their compositions and recordings.
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