All applicants are required to submit a video audition. Please convert all videos to YouTube (unlisted) and paste the links into the Audition Application, that can be accessed on the page marked “Deadlines.” When you have completed the audition application click “submit.”
NOTE: All materials such as transcripts, TOEFL scores, letters of recommendation, etc. should be sent to graduate admissions as part of your general CCNY application.
Reportoire
The candidate will perform one selection from each of the four following categories:
1. Bebop
- Select and perform a bebop head from memory in a medium-fast to fast tempo. Examples of bebop heads are “Donna Lee,” “Scrapple from the Apple,” or “Anthropology.”
- All candidates will play a minimum of two improvised choruses on the chord progression.
- Pianists and guitarists will accompany a soloist, or “comp,” for two choruses.
- Bassists will demonstrate a “foundational” walking bass line outlining the chord progression.
- Drummers will trade “8s” or “4s” in addition to improvising complete choruses.
2. Ballad
- Select and perform a ballad from memory. Examples of ballads are “Body and Soul,” “Darn that Dream,” or “‘Round Midnight.”
- The melody should not be played literally, but rather should be interpreted and embellished. Guitarists will play a chord melody arrangement of the head.
- All candidates, except drummers, will play one complete improvised chorus on the chord progression.
- Drummers will play with brushes.
3. Nonfunctional Harmony
- Select and perform, from memory, a jazz composition that employs nonfunctional harmonic idioms. Examples of nonfunctional harmonic compositions are “Very Early” (Bill Evans), “Windows” (Chick Corea), “Dolphin Dance” (Herbie Hancock), and “Yes or No” (Wayne Shorter).
- All candidates will play a minimum of two improvised choruses on the chord progression.
- Pianists, guitarists, bassists, and drummers will accompany a soloist, or “comp,” for two choruses.
4. Transcription
- Perform a reading of a transcribed solo (memorization not required) as played by one of the recognized masters of the candidate’s instrument. For example, a candidate for trumpet might play a transcription of a Clifford Brown solo, or a candidate for guitar might play a transcription of a Wes Montgomery solo. Vocalists may sing an instrumental solo of their choosing.
Questions can be directed to the Program Advisor:
Prof. Mike Holober — jazzgrad@ccny.cuny.edu