Jazz Ensemble

The Elon Jazz Ensemble is a big band (up to 17 musicians) focusing on the performance of a wide range of classic and contemporary jazz repertoire. The group rehearses twice per week in the fall and spring semesters, and performs concerts each semester.

Registration for Jazz Ensemble is open to any Elon student with experience playing saxophone, trumpet, trombone, piano, guitar, bass, or drum set, including music majors AND non-music majors.

Auditions are required to join the ensemble and are held at the beginning of each semester. If you are interested in auditioning or have questions about the Jazz Ensemble, please email Dr. Heitlinger.

Schedule

MUS 1040A: Jazz Ensemble Fall and Spring Schedule

  • Tuesdays and Thursdays, 12:30-2:10 pm, CFA 164

Audition Requirements

If you are interested in auditioning for one of the Elon jazz ensembles, please email Dr. Heitlinger.

Jazz Ensemble auditions take place at the beginning of each semester. Be aware that all Jazz Ensemble auditions may include sight reading. Click your instrument below for more information about audition requirements:

  • Trumpet, Trombone, Saxophone

    • Prepared piece of your choice such as an etude, jazz etude, etc.
    • Sight reading (if requested)
    • Improvisation on a 12-bar blues or tune of your choice (optional)

  • Piano

    • “A” and “B” rootless formula voicings for ii-V-I and iiø-V-i in all keys.
    • Left-hand guide tone voicings (3rd and 7th of chords) with right-hand improvisation on 12-bar blues.

  • Bass

    12-bar blues with walking bass lines.

  • Guitar

    Perform a prepared piece such as Autumn Leaves or Blue Bossa or a 12-bar blues. Demonstrate melody, chords, and improvisation.

  • Drums

    Demonstrate a range of grooves/styles, possibly including:

    • Swing
    • Broken Swing
    • Brushes: Swing
    • Bossa Nova
    • Samba
    • Afro-Cuban