Drake Jazz Ensembles: Audition Information

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Auditioning for a Drake Jazz Ensemble is a fun and easy way to get involved in the Drake Jazz Program. Auditions are held in the Turner Jazz Center (located at the northwest corner of the Harmon Fine Arts Center) on the first evening of each semester at the following times: 

• Rhythm Section: 6:30pm-7:45pm
• Trumpets: 7:45pm-8:30pm
• Trombones: 8:30pm-9:15pm
• Saxophones: 9:15pm-10:00pm

Wind players will be asked to demonstrate their skill in sight-reading with optional improvisation. Rhythm section players will have to meet the same requirements as wind players in sight-reading and improvisation, as well as demonstrate any skills unique to their instrument (i.e. comping, walking bass lines, etc.).

Results are posted the next afternoon in the Fine Arts Center in time for that evening's rehearsal (rehearsals begin the first week of every semester). If you have any questions, please contact Prof. Andrew Classen.

Jazz I meets Tuesdays and Thursdays from 12:20pm-1:50pm in the Turner Jazz Center.

Jazz II meets Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2:00pm-3:20pm in the Turner Jazz Center during the fall semester. The ensemble meets Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 12:00pm-12:50pm during the spring semester.

Jazz I Conductor: Andrew Classen, Professor of Trumpet and Patty and Fred Turner Professor of Jazz Studies

Jazz II Conductor: Colin Young, Teaching Artist of Saxophone