Audition Information
Auditions for the 2026–27 Columbus Youth Jazz season are announced! New and returning students in grades 7–12 can audition to join a big band or small combo, perfect for any level of jazz knowledge. Each ensemble is directed by one of our exceptional teaching artists, who are recognized among the top jazz performers and educators in the Columbus area.
As of 2022, the Columbus Youth Jazz program is completely tuition free. Columbus Youth Jazz participants will have access to exciting performance and educational opportunities beyond weekly rehearsals (including complimentary tickets to watch our professional ensemble, the Columbus Jazz Orchestra). We look forward to seeing you at auditions!
BIG BAND AND COMBO AUDITION DAYS
Big band audition Dates
Auditions for the 2026–2027 Big Bands have passed.
COMBOS AUDITION DATES
Wednesday, September 9, 3:30–7 PM
Sunday, September 13, 2–4 PM
*All audition times are subject to change based on demand.
Instrumentalist Audition Requirements
1. Students will be asked to play the ascending and descending concert B-Flat major scale. (Brass: two octaves if possible).
2. Choose ONE selection from the following etudes based upon your experience level. Students will be asked to perform the song two times through (take the repeat as written).
First time: play the written melody
Second time: play an improvised solo. If you are in doubt about improvising, a good approach is to restate the melody utilizing new rhythms.
Level 1 – For beginning and intermediate instrumentalists
(Based on the 12-bar blues in the key of concert Bb)
Level 2 – For intermediate and advanced instrumentalists
(Based on the chord progression of the jazz standard “There Will Never Be Another You”)
- Flute
- Alto and baritone saxophone
- Tenor saxophone
- Trumpet
- Trombone
- Bass trombone
- Piano and guitar
- Bass
- Drums
3. Sight reading, to be chosen by the panel based on age and skill level.
VOCAL LAB AUDITION DAY
New for 2026-2027, vocal jazz students will have the opportunity to audition for our CYJ Combos. Auditions will take place Wednesday, September 9 and Sunday, September 13.
More information will be released mid-July.
VOCALIST AUDITION REQUIREMENTS
Students will prepare one jazz standard or a selection from the Great American Songbook. Scat singing/improvisation is not mandatory but highly encouraged. Please bring a lead sheet or sheet music in your key or a backing track that you can sing along with.
If you are unsure if a tune is appropriate for this audition, you can email the Columbus Youth Jazz team at at youthjazz@columbusjazz.org for advice.
Scat singing/improvisation is not mandatory but highly encouraged. Please bring a lead sheet or sheet music in your key OR a backing track that you can sing along with.
Audition Tips
We look forward to hearing you play and want you to have a successful audition experience. As you play, we’ll be listening and watching for your:
- Sound, tone, and touch
- Ability to read music
- Swing feel
- Knowledge of basic scales
- Basic time feel and rhythmic accuracy
Your private music instructor or school music teachers can be helpful resources as you prepare for this audition.
Register to Audition
Select the programs you’re interested in and register for your audition!