Closeup of a Sax line in a big band ensemble

Jazz Ensemble

Course

UNDERGRADUATE ENS 105E
GRADUATE ENS 185E

T-Th 2-3:30p
MRH 6.248

 


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The University of Texas Jazz Ensemble, made up of Jazz Studies majors and students from other disciplines, focuses on a wide range of styles from the jazz idiom and regularly collaborates with UT Jazz Studies guest artists. The ensemble performs throughout the Austin area, enriching the local music scene while fostering meaningful connections between students, professionals, and the broader community.

Join

Jazz Ensemble is open to students university-wide by audition. Auditions for the entire academic year take place the week before Fall classes begin.

Audition Information

Requirements

Part 1 – Excerpt, “Little Pixie II” Performed unaccompanied

All Saxophones, Trumpets, Trombones, and Rhythm Section instruments:

PART II – Prepared Song, “Autumn Leaves” performed with rhythm section

Saxophones, Trumpets, Trombones, and Vocalists:
  • Play the melody
  • Take 1-2 improvised choruses
  • Play the melody out
  • Recommend performing from memory; no sheet music will be provided at the audition.
Rhythm Section Instruments
  • Play the melody
  • Take 1-2 improvised choruses
  • Comp for one chorus
  • Play the melody out
  • Recommend performing from memory; no sheet music will be provided at the audition.

NOTE: You may choose the tempo for “Autumn Leaves”. Vocalists may choose a comfortable key if the CONCERT part is outside their range.

PART III – Additional Selection

Prepare a short selection (3 minutes maximum) of your choice. It could be another tune, a performance on another instrument, a transcription of a solo, etc. Anything you feel represents your very best jazz musicianship.

Schedule

Auditions will take place August 22-25 in the Jazz Room (MRH 6.248). 

SIGN-UP

Sign up for an audition by August 20.

Meet the Faculty

Director

Upcoming Performances

Composer Etienne Charles, wearing a navy blue patterned kaftan and shawl, holds his trumpet beside his ear

Etienne Charles, trumpet and composer

Event Status
Scheduled

Diego Rivera and Mike Sailors, directors

Colored graphic line art in the shape of a saxophone

The Jazz Age: 1920s and 2020s

Event Status
Scheduled

Diego Rivera and Mike Sailors, directors 

Jazz guitarist Peter Bernstein stands in front of a blue painted cement wall holding his guitar

Peter Bernstein, jazz guitar

Event Status
Scheduled

Diego Rivera and Mike Sailors, directors 

Melissa Aldana sits for the camera, holding her tenor saxophone.

Melissa Aldana, tenor saxophone

Event Status
Scheduled

Diego Rivera and Mike Sailors, directors