Jazz studies
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:
- Start from the beginning, stop at letter “O”
- Reference recording: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4MSMgwknQlI
- Sheet music will be provided at the audition
- Vocalists do not need to prepare
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.
Upcoming Performances

Etienne Charles, trumpet and composer
Diego Rivera and Mike Sailors, directors

The Jazz Age: 1920s and 2020s
Diego Rivera and Mike Sailors, directors

Peter Bernstein, jazz guitar
Diego Rivera and Mike Sailors, directors

Melissa Aldana, tenor saxophone
Diego Rivera and Mike Sailors, directors