Youth Ensemble Auditions & Applications
Finding the Right Ensemble
Every student begins with an audition or placement evaluation. The goal isn’t to screen students out—it’s to place each musician in the ensemble where they’ll learn the most, be appropriately challenged, and have the best musical experience. Whether you’re new to jazz or an advanced player, we’ll work with you to find the right fit.
The Jazzschool offers weekly ensemble classes for middle and high school musicians at beginning, intermediate, and advanced levels. Students are placed in small combos or larger ensembles based on experience, instrumentation, and availability.
All youth ensembles culminate in a performance as part of the Jazzschool Student Performance Series at the end of each term. Performances are free and open to the public.
How to Apply
- Complete the Young Musicians Program Ensemble Application.
- Review the audition guidelines for the ensemble(s) you wish to join.
- Submit any required audition materials.
- We’ll contact you with audition scheduling and placement information.
Questions? Contact Erik Jekabson, Young Musicians Program Director, at erik@jazzschool.org.
Fall 2026 Audition Dates
August 8
- Advanced High School Jazz Workshop
August 15–16
- Studio Band
August 22
- Middle & High School Jazz Combos
- High School Funk Ensemble
- High School New Orleans Brass Band
- Video Game / Anime Ensemble
- Future Jazz: Incorporating Electronics into a Jazz Combo
Please submit your application and any required audition materials before the appropriate audition date.
Interested in joining this summer?
Placement for Summer 2026 youth ensembles is still available on a rolling basis, subject to space and instrumentation. Complete the application above, and we’ll contact you about placement options.
Audition Guidelines
Mondays 6:30–8 pm, 9/21–11/30; No class 11/23
Studio Band — High School Big Band
The Studio Band is the Jazzschool’s premier youth big band, designed for advanced high school musicians ready to perform challenging repertoire at a high level.
Mondays 4:45–6:15 pm, 9/21–11/30; No class 11/23
Advanced High School Jazz Workshops
The Advanced High School Jazz Workshop is a multiple DownBeat Award-winning ensemble for advanced high school musicians with a strong foundation in the bebop tradition.
Offered throughout the week
Middle & High School Jazz Ensembles (Combos)
Our Jazz Combos provide middle and high school students with the opportunity to develop improvisation, ensemble playing, and musicianship in a small-group setting.
Tuesdays 4:45–6:15 pm, 9/22–12/1; No class 11/24
Future Jazz – Incorporating Electronics into a Jazz Combo
Designed for middle and high school musicians, this innovative ensemble explores how electronic instruments and digital technology can expand the sound and creative possibilities of a jazz combo.
Saturdays 10–11:30 am, 9/26–12/5; No class 11/28
High School Funk Ensembles
Explore the music and groove of classic funk in this high-energy ensemble.
Saturdays 10–11:30 am, 9/26–12/5; No class 11/28
High School New Orleans Brass Band
Explore the vibrant tradition of New Orleans brass band music in this high-energy ensemble.
Wednesdays 4:45–6:15 pm, 9/23–12/2; No class 11/25
Youth Video Game / Anime Ensemble
Explore the music of Studio Ghibli, Final Fantasy, The Legend of Zelda, Pokémon, anime, and other iconic soundtracks in a collaborative ensemble setting.