About the Jazz Ensembles...
There are two jazz ensembles at Union. Jazz is a great way for students to expand their musical horizons and learn about America's orignal art form.
Jazz Ensembles are open to all Union band students. Auditions are required for Jazz Ensemble 1 while Jazz Ensemble 2 is open to any Union band student. Standard instrumentation is used for the ensembles.
5-6 saxophones (alto, tenor, & bari)
4-5 trombones
4-5 trumpets
piano
acoustic and/or electric bass
guitar
drumset
Auditions for Jazz Ensemble 1 will be held in June. All students interested in being in a jazz band should sign up for Jazz Ensemble 2 until auditions occur. Students must be enrolled concurrently in another band or percussion class to participate in the jazz program. Standard Concert Dress is required for Jazz students.
Audition material
For wind players:
12 major scales
Sight Reading
For piano, acoustic bass, guitar:
12 major scales
Reading of chord symbols
Sight Reading
For drums:
Play time in the following styles and various tempos
Medium Swing
Fast Swing
Samba
Slow and Medium Swing - Brushes
Sight reading
There is no formal audition for Jazz Ensemble 2. All students are welcome on traditional jazz instruments.
