Jazz Ensembles
The University Jazz Ensembles are a select group of student musicians experienced in the study and performance of jazz music. There are two sections of bands that utilize standard large jazz ensemble instrumentation for 13 winds and 4 rhythm section instruments. The bands perform select literature from the best traditional and contemporary jazz repertoire at on-campus and community concerts.
Rehearsals
There is a Monday/Wednesday/Friday and Tuesday/Thursday section available to accommodate class scheduling. Both sections meet during the regular academic day and students receive one elective credit hour for participation.
Jazz Ensemble I (MUSC 282, Section 501), M/W/F 10:20-11:10 a.m.
Jazz Ensemble II (MUSC 282, Section 502), T/Th 9:35-10:50 a.m.
Audition Information
Membership in the Texas A&M University jazz ensembles is based on a live audition. If you have questions regarding auditioning, you may contact Mr. Chris Hollar.
- If you are an incoming student, your audition should be completed BEFORE your new student conference so you can register for the correct class. The afternoon prior to your conference often works best for students traveling to campus.
- If you are a current Texas A&M student, your audition should be completed BEFORE you register for classes so you can register for the correct class.
To audition:
- Email the Director of Jazz Ensembles, Chris Hollar.
- You will be contacted by the director of the ensemble to set up an audition time at the Music Activities Center.
For the audition:
- Wind players should prepare four Major scales in concert Bb, F, Eb and Ab through the comfortable range of the instrument. Students should prepare one medium swing tempo or faster selection and one ballad or Latin style selection. Students may use region jazz etudes, melodies from standard jazz tunes, or transcribed jazz solos that demonstrate style, musicality and technique on the instrument. For lead player auditions, one piece may be performed to a play along accompaniment to include improvisation.
- Guitar/Piano players should prepare major scales covering the range of the instrument and demonstrate four basic chord types: major, minor, augmented, and diminished. Students should prepare two jazz tunes demonstrating melody and comping techniques in two contrasting jazz styles. One or both pieces may be performed to a play along accompaniment to include improvisation.
- Bass players must be proficient reading bass music and chord progressions. Bass players should prepare major scales through the range of the instrument. Students should also prepare two choruses of a blues selection or one chorus of a 32-bar jazz standard utilizing walking quarter note bass lines. The audition will also include sight-reading a quarter note bass line and a more rhythmically challenging funk bass line.
- Drummers should have some previous fundamental drum set experience or training. Students should be prepared to demonstrate specific drumming abilities for playing time and improvising fills in various styles of jazz music including medium or up–tempo swing, basic Latin, and rock or funk. The audition will also include sight-reading a simple big band style kick chart.
You will also receive a sight-reading selection via email very shortly before your audition time.
To speak with a director by phone, please call our regular number, 979.845.3529 and leave a message that includes your name, call back number, instrument played and what ensemble you are interested in. The appropriate director will call you back within two (2) business days.