MM Auditions

Application and Audition deadlines: 

March 2 for Fall Admission
November 2 for Spring Admission
Video Submissions Only

The application includes a letter of intent, transcripts, TOEFL score, 2 letters of recommendation, and audition videos.

Start MM Audition Application

MM Audition Requirements

The candidate will perform one selection from each of the four following categories:

1. Bebop

• Select and perform a bebop head from memory in a medium-fast to fast tempo. Examples of bebop heads are Donna Lee, Scrapple from the Apple, or Anthropology.
• All candidates will play a minimum of two improvised choruses on the chord progression.
• Pianists and guitarists will accompany a soloist, or “comp,” for two choruses.
• Bassists will demonstrate a “foundational” walking bass line outlining the chord progression.
• Drummers will trade “8s” or “4s” in addition to improvising complete choruses.

2. Ballad

• Select and perform a ballad from memory. Examples of ballads are Body and Soul, Darn that Dream, or 'Round Midnight.
• The melody should not be played literally, but rather should be interpreted and embellished. Guitarists will play a chord melody arrangement of the head.
• All candidates, except drummers, will play one complete improvised chorus on the chord progression.
• Drummers will play with brushes.

3. Nonfunctional Harmony

• Select and perform, from memory, a jazz composition that employs nonfunctional harmonic idioms. Examples of nonfunctional harmonic compositions are Very Early (Bill Evans), Windows (Chick Corea), Dolphin Dance (Herbie Hancock), and Yes or No (Wayne Shorter).
• All candidates will play a minimum of two improvised choruses on the chord progression.
• Pianists, guitarists, bassists, and drummers will accompany a soloist, or “comp,” for two choruses.

4. Transcription

• Perform a reading of a transcribed solo (memorization not required) as played by one of the recognized masters of the candidate’s instrument. For example, a candidate for trumpet might play a transcription of a Clifford Brown solo, or a candidate for guitar might play a transcription of a Wes Montgomery solo. Vocalists may sing an instrumental solo of their choosing.