Jazz Combos

Elon Jazz Combos are smaller jazz ensembles (3-8 musicians) focusing dynamic, creative performance. These groups rehearse twice per week in the fall and spring semesters, and perform multiple times each semester.

Registration for Jazz Combos is open to any Elon student with previous experience playing jazz on any instrument or voice, including music majors AND non-music majors.

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

Schedule

MUS 1041A: Jazz Combo Fall and Spring Schedule

  • Mondays and Wednesdays, 12:30-1:40 pm, CFA 162
  • Additional combos may be scheduled TBA

Audition Requirements

Jazz Combo auditions take place at the beginning of each semester. Click your instrument below for more information about audition requirements! Please email Dr. Heitlinger to schedule an audition.

  • Brass, Woodwinds, Violin, Viola

    Perform a prepared jazz piece with improvisation such as Autumn Leaves or Blue Bossa or a 12-bar blues, including the melody and at least one chorus of improvisation.

  • 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

  • Voice

    Perform a prepared song of your choice with a backing track. Optional: include scat singing improvisation.

We aim to offer opportunities for students at all experience levels. If the Director of Jazz Studies feels that you aren’t yet ready for an ensemble experience, you may be encouraged to take Jazz Techniques applied lessons to help develop pre-requisite skills before enrolling in a combo.