A Degree in Jazz Performance

A 5-7 minute, high quality video or audio recording(s). Include a brief description of your experience in the Jazz idiom (in school or otherwise) and with whom you have studied. Graduate prospects add information of where you earned your undergraduate degree.

Pre-Screening videos should include the melody and at least one chorus of improvisation on each of the following:

• One medium or up tempo jazz standard
• One jazz standard ballad
• One free selection that contrasts the above two (Latin, fusion, etc.)
• Rhythm section instruments (piano, guitar, bass & drums) include – comping chord changes, walking bass lines, stylistically appropriate drum rhythmic patterns.

Your materials will be reviewed based on the following:

• Instrumental tone quality, technique – clarity, idiomatic articulation, rhythmic feel, etc.
• Maturity of musical interpretation and fidelity to the piece.
•  Level of the pieces performed

Qualified candidates will be invited to audition in person at FIU. Organized auditions are held three times per year, but can be scheduled at other times throughout the year upon request. Applicants who wish to be considered for University merit-based scholarships should attend the November audition date. Theory and history placement tests will be given during organized audition days.

Upcoming audition dates include: November 18, 2023 | February 17, 2024 | and March 16, 2024.

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