2027 All-State Instrumental Jazz Audition Material

Instrumental backing tracks are provided as an educational resource but will not be used in the audition, other than the improvisation portion.

WINDS & RHYTHM SECTION  - 3 components/separate files for upload (4 for trumpet students)

  1. Trumpet - play bottom divisi only

  1. Trumpet - play bottom divisi only

  1.  Perform with backing track played on an audible, external device.
  2. Use the lead sheet with chord progressions to improvise two chorus of F Blues - notation is not allowed.
  3. Rhythm Section Instruments (Piano, Bass, Guitar & Drums) will also improvise for two choruses (no comping or walking bass lines).

  1. ALL Trumpets must play this portion of the audition

  • SIGHT-READING
  1. Administered via Opus and recorded directly into Opus audition platform)

Note for students auditioning for Vibes/Aux percussion:

  • Students wishing to audition for Vibes/Aux percussion will audition on vibes using the guitar Swing Etude and guitar Improv materials.  They will be required to play congas (use the drum part as a sketch) for the Funk Etude.

2026 All-State Vocal Jazz Audition Material

(Audition resources at bottom of page)

All learning tracks are to be purchased from Pipe’s Practice Trax

Jazz Solo  

  • Recorded in one file for upload
  • When using the lead sheet, take the second ending
  • Stylistic interpretation of the written work is encouraged and rewarded, but students are reminded to keep things tasteful
  • No learning track is provided intentionally to allow for individual interpretation.
  • Memorization required
  • Students should perform along with the provided accompaniment track played on an audible, external device.
  • Accompaniment tracks available in multiple keys - choose the best for your voice

Jazz Choir Excerpt  

  • Recorded in one file for upload
  • Green Lights by Sarah Jarosz/Luke Reynolds, Arr. David von Kampen
  • (M 79 -End)
  • Students will perform their part from the excerpt with the appropriate accompaniment track played on an audible, external device.
  • The auditioned part MUST BE MUTED.
  • Perform along with the provided accompaniment tracks

 

Sight Reading

  • Administered via Opus and recorded directly into Opus audition platform)
  • Students will be asked to sing an 8-measure sight-reading exercise 
  • Please refer to NMMEA handbook for sight reading parameter
  • Piano introductions in all keys are available in NMMEA resource folders

Audition Resources