Jazz Ensembles Auditions

Fall 2026

Auditions are only for placement in Big Band (called “Jazz Ensemble” online) & Jazz Combos. There are no auditions necessary for Jazz Workshop – simply register for Jazz Workshop CFA MU 096/196 A1 (the zero-credit option is only available to students who are at/over their credit limit).

To Audition for Big Band (“Jazz Ensemble”) & Jazz Combos:

Step 1: Complete the Join Form

(REQUIRED) Complete the Join Form, if you have not done so already, so that we can notify you throughout the summer about auditions, etc. There’s no need to register for either group on your transcript until you are placed in one at the end of the first week of classes.

Step 2: Prepare for Auditions/Placements

How it works:

  • Record your video audition and submit it by August 16, 2026 (this includes Big Band veterans from 2025-2026).
  • Invitations to audition in person will then go out between Aug 17-Sept 1 (Big Band veterans from 2025-2026 will not be required to audition live – your video counts as your audition).
  • Live auditions will occur during the first week of classes. Invitees will receive a link to schedule a date/time. The material is the same as your video – we just want to hear you in person!
  • When auditions close, rosters for all groups will be posted. After that, you’ll register for the ensemble(s) you make on MyBU Student. (Don’t register for a group before you make it.)

A few notes about video auditions:

  • Auditions are meant to be enjoyable and stress-free. We just want to hear you play! Have fun with these, and simply show us what you’ve got.
  • Students may audition for multiple ensembles with a single audition video recording. Just state which ensemble(s) you’re auditioning for.
  • For Big Band, improvisation is optional and not required.
  • For students who want to be considered for Lead Trumpet or Lead Trombone in Big Band, please demonstrate your high range.
  • For students who want to be considered for Bass Trombone in Big Band, please demonstrate your low range.

How to submit your video audition:

  • Video auditions should be emailed to jazzband@bu.edu by 11:59 PM, August 16, 2026. If the attachment is too large to email, it may be shared via Google Drive with both Aaron Goldberg (agold@bu.edu) and Warren Levenson (levenson@bu.edu).
  • Please title both your email and video file with your name, instrument, and ensemble(s) you’re auditioning for.
    • Example: “Jerry Walters, Trombone audition, Big Band”
  • If your audition includes the use of a backing track (see below), both you and the backing track must be heard clearly in your video.
  • If you have questions, please contact us at jazzband@bu.edu. We’re always happy to hear from you!

 

If you have any questions, please contact us at jazzband@bu.edu. Thank you!