All jazz composition applicants are required to submit an audio recording for prescreening purposes in order to receive an invitation to a live audition in New York City. The recording must include all of the repertoire as listed below. Prescreening recordings must be uploaded via ArtsApp.com. It is not required that the format be a professional or studio recording, but the sound quality must be as good as possible.
Repertoire for the prescreening recording must demonstrate the ability to improvise and play with a rhythm section, using a live band or play-along recording.
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Jazz Composition applicants must complete a two-part examination/audition, which takes place over a two-day period. Students unable to be available for both parts cannot be evaluated for admission. 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. The test will examine various theoretical and practical matters pertaining to the knowledge of musical composition and will also include a compositional assignment. A piano will be provided for applicant's 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 their compositions and recordings. (Please note that all scores and recordings must be submitted to the Office of Admissions by February 1st.)
Present at least four pieces including three small ensemble (3-10 instruments) pieces and one large ensemble (10 or more instruments) piece. One of the four must be a composition including a vocal part or a vocal ensemble. A MIDI-realized work is optional. Additionally, applicants must submit an 8-10 minute edited CD 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 3 copies of each score represented on the recording, and 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 must be a composition including a vocal part or a vocal ensemble. A MIDI-realized work is optional. Additionally, applicants must submit a 10-12 minute edited CD 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 3 copies of each score represented on the recording, and edited to reflect the recording. Other scores may be submitted as well.