RSJI Auditions
Video Demos (prior to camp week)
Students who wish to be considered for Honors ensembles are asked to submit a new video demo as part of the application process (see “Creating a Video Demo Recording” below). Otherwise, video submissions are not required to apply.
Live Placement Auditions (first day of camp)
Live auditions on the first day of camp allow instructors to evaluate students on their reading and improvisation proficiency to assess their overall playing ability & experience in order to help place them in the most appropriate classes and ensembles for the week. Though they are not required, students are encouraged to participate in the live placement auditions on Sunday to assist us in putting the groups together and make it easier for the staff to group the students in the best possible way. There is no pressure – Just do your best and we’ll take care of the rest.
Regardless of your level of performance or whether you have completed an audition or not, all camp students will be placed into ensembles for the week. Please note: Video demos do not substitute for live placement auditions offered on the first day of camp.
What to Expect at Live Placement Auditions
An audition room for each type of instrument will be available, containing one or two instructors in each, i.e. a room for Trumpets, another room for Drums, etc. Students should plan to perform unaccompanied for most parts of the audition and with a play-along recording or instructor accompaniment for the improvisation/blues. (Play-along will be provided by RU staff on site.) Most auditions typically span 10-15 minutes in length. The audition will include:
- Performance of a prepared short passage from a big band arrangement (Materials will be provided in advance)
- Improvisation and choice of melodies over Blues Changes (Materials will be provided in advance)
- Sight-reading a short passage from a big band arrangement
Audition materials will be posted here and emailed to you prior to the first day of camp.
Creating a Video Demo Recording (prior to camp week)
- A video demo should feature the applicant performing a single jazz standard selection along with a backing track or live accompaniment.
- Tune suggestions include, but are not limited to, “Blue Bossa,” “Doxy,” “Little Sunflower,” and “Take The A Train.”
- The student should ideally perform the tune head followed by one or two choruses of improvisation.
- When ready, upload your video file to Box
Please note: video demos are optional and assist in identifying potential candidates for Honors consideration. They do not substitute for live placement auditions offered on the first day of camp.