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Jazz Requirements
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There are 16 categories within jazz. The jazz panelists will also determine recipients of Honorable Mention and Merit awards
Requirements
Jazz is a multiple category discipline. When filling out your application you will select what instrument you are applying for. Each instrument you apply for will require a separate audition submission. All categories have the same requirements except for percussion and composition. Please choose the requirements that apply to your audition at left.
Mailing Requirements
Please review mailing requirements carefully – they are different for each discipline, and failure to follow the instructions can result in disqualification.
Evaluation Criteria
The evaluation of jazz participants is based on the following elements of performance:
- Improvisation – the ability to create new motifs, melodies, and rhythms that are suggested by the harmonic structure (chord progression) of the composition.
- Tone Production – the ability to achieve a quality of sound appropriate to the instrument and to the style of the music.
- Technique – the degree to which the performer has acquired control of the instrument.
- Rhythm – the ability to establish, maintain, and project rhythms with a wide range of complexity.
- Intonation – proper tuning of the instrument and in tune playing.
- Interpretation – the ability to project a convincing conception of the selection.
- Phrasing – sensitivity to the need for phrasing and the ability to execute it.
