Eligibility
Students in grades 7-12 are eligible to perform a jazz solo audition. However, only students in grades 9-12 are eligible to be selected for an all-county jazz ensemble. Students in grades 7-9 are limited to a level 5 NYSSMA jazz solo.
Students may audition on more than one instrument but must make their preference known at the audition. Students may audition on the following instruments: Alto Sax, Tenor Sax, Bari Sax, Trumpet, Trombone, Bass Trombone, Percussion - Drum Set, Percussion - Mallets, String Bass, Electric Bass, Guitar, and Piano.
Selection
Based on the judge's scores, rankings and comments, the jazz selection committee will choose two bands. Jazz Committee decisions are final. If a student who is selected for an all-county Jazz Ensemble does not participate in the performance, he/she may not audition the following year. An exception may be made by the chairman for extenuating circumstances.
Alternates
Alternates for the A Band are chosen from the B Band. Alternates for the B Band are chosen from the alternate list.
Audition Dates
Jazz auditions take place at the Elementary Solo Festival.
Audition Format
Solos must be chosen from the NYSSMA Manual Edition XXVIII (Effective July 1, 2006).
Percussion instruments auditions are 15 minutes. All other instruments are 10 minutes - following NYSSMA guidelines.
There is no sight reading requirement.
Students are required to improvise slow and fast blues in the keys of concert Bb and F using the CD of "Blues in All Keys". Disk and CD player will be provided.
Students may bring their own jazz CD for their NYSSMA solo, and may combine their solo and improvisation using their accompaniment disc.
A second published edition of the solo is required by ECMEA for a student to be considered for selection into an all-county ensemble. If a student performs without a second published edition of the solo, he/she will only receive a rating, and will not be eligible for selection into an all-county ensemble. Students with copied music (not a published edition) will not be allowed to perform.