School of Music | College of Fine Arts - Boston University

Jazz Audition Information

Prescreening

Applicants to the following programs and instruments need to submit a prescreening video recording or portfolio for review before they can be invited to a live audition or interview.

• Applicants to cello, double bass, flute, percussion, piano, trumpet, violin, or voice regardless of degree or program
• Graduate Composition majors
• All applicants to the Doctor of Musical Arts in Performance
• All applicants to the Artist Diploma

Prescreening recordings and portfolios are due by December 1. Applicants will be notified of prescreening results in early January.

Jazz Ensembles

The Boston University Jazz Ensembles consist of two Big Bands and two Jazz Combos. These ensembles are open to all students of BU regardless of major, grad or undergrad. The rehearsal and performance schedule fits easily into the academic schedules of BU students thus making participation a worthwhile and enjoyable experience. Each semester, BU jazz ensembles perform at several concerts, university functions, and the semi-annual “Jazz Fest” held on the last evening of classes each semester.

Auditions for placement and seating in all Jazz Ensembles take place during the first week of classes each September. Membership for the full academic year is encouraged unless a student chooses to study abroad in the spring. Open positions in the spring will be filled as needed (email bands@bu.edu if you missed auditions in September and hope to join in the spring semester).

Updated on 09/25/2018