JAZZ Nation is excited to announce auditions for the 2026–27 Generations Jazz Program, bringing together some of the strongest and most dedicated high school jazz musicians from San Antonio and surrounding communities.

The program is designed for students who want to take their playing beyond the traditional school jazz band experience. Through challenging repertoire, improvisation, section playing, masterclasses, professional mentorship, recording opportunities, and performances throughout the community, students will develop the skills, confidence, and musical versatility needed to become well-rounded jazz musicians.

This season, the program expands to include the Generations Latin Jazz Combo, providing select students with the opportunity to explore the rich musical traditions of Afro-Cuban and Latin Jazz.

This is more than another ensemble. It is an opportunity to learn, perform, and grow alongside some of the area's most dedicated young musicians and professional jazz educators.

Auditions are open to high school students in the San Antonio area and surrounding communities who are currently participating in a school music program or have equivalent musical experience.

Students should be prepared to demonstrate their current musical ability, willingness to learn, and commitment to being part of a serious ensemble.

Spots are limited, so students are encouraged to begin preparing their audition materials now.

• Eb Alto Saxophone — 2 spots
• Bb Tenor Saxophone — 2 spots
• Eb Baritone Saxophone — 1 spot

• 4–5 spots — Lead, solo, and section positions

• 4–5 spots — Tenor and Bass Trombone

• Piano — 2 spots (keyboard provided)
• Bass — 2 spots (upright or electric)
• Drums — 2 spots
• Guitar — 2 spots
• Vibraphone — 1 spot
• Auxiliary Percussion — Timbale, conga, bongo, etc.

Final ensemble instrumentation and placement will be determined based on auditions and the needs of each ensemble.

Auditions are not simply about playing the hardest material possible. We want to hear who you are as a musician and determine how you can contribute to the ensemble.

Students will be evaluated on:

• Tone & Intonation
• Musicality, Style & Phrasing
• Reading Accuracy
• Improvisation Skills
• Time, Groove & Rhythmic Feel
• Section Blend & Ensemble Compatibility
• Preparation & Professionalism
• Coachability, Commitment & Attitude

Students do not need to be perfect. We are looking for musicians who are prepared, motivated, curious, and ready to grow.

Students selected for the Generations Jazz Orchestra must be prepared to make a meaningful commitment to the program.

• Attend weekly Sunday rehearsals from 3:00–5:00 PM
• Attend all scheduled performances
• Arrive prepared and ready to rehearse
• Maintain a positive and professional rehearsal environment
• Participate fully in the educational components of the program
• Communicate appropriately regarding conflicts or absences

Participation is a commitment to the ensemble, your fellow musicians, and your own musical growth.

Participation in the 2026–27 Generations Jazz Program is $600 for the full season, divided into two convenient installments:

• Fall: $300 — Due November 1, 2026
• Spring: $300 — Due January 3, 2027

Your tuition supports the instruction, rehearsal, performance, and professional development opportunities provided throughout the Generations season.

• Weekly rehearsals and instruction with Karlos Elizondo, Rene Gonzalez, and JAZZ Nation faculty
• Performance opportunities throughout the season
• Featured performances at Jazz, TX
• Guest artist collaborations and clinics
• Professional masterclasses
• Opportunities to participate in the Generations Latin Jazz Combo
• Priority enrollment opportunity for the JAZZ Nation Summer Institute

JAZZ Nation is committed to providing students with meaningful, high-quality jazz education and performance experiences while keeping the program accessible to dedicated young musicians.

Families with questions regarding tuition, payment options, or financial assistance are encouraged to contact us at info@jazznation.org.

Generations students don't just rehearse—they perform.

Throughout the season, students will have opportunities to perform in professional and community settings, including:

• Local high schools
• Colleges and universities
• Blue Star Arts Complex
• Main Plaza
• Jazz, TX
• Additional community and special-event performances

Students may also have opportunities to work directly with professional musicians and guest artists through clinics, masterclasses, rehearsals, and collaborative performances.

• Step 1: Application With Video Submission (Due October 9, 2026)
• Step 2: In-Person Audition (By Invitation, October 18, 2026)
• Step 3: Selected Artists Notified (By October 22, 2026)
• Step 4: Parent Meeting/First Rehearsal (October 25, 2026)

Prepare and submit a video performance of a jazz selection that best represents your current ability as a musician. 

Your audition may include:

• A TMEA Region Jazz audition etude
• A jazz performance in which you are featured
• A prepared jazz solo
• An improvisation performance
• Another video that demonstrates your jazz style and musical ability

Whenever possible, choose material that allows us to hear your tone, musicality, technique, phrasing, improvisation, and confidence as a performer.

The goal isn't to show us how difficult a piece you can play. The goal is to show us what kind of musician you are.

The deadline to apply is October 9.

Students advancing to the live round of auditions taking place on October 18 will be notified and invited to sign up for an audition slot via email.

Selected students will be notified of their audition results by Wednesday, October 22, and will receive information regarding:

• Ensemble placement
• Rehearsal expectations
• Tuition and enrollment
• Performance commitments
• The 2026–27 season calendar
• Opportunities for participation in the Generations Latin Jazz Combo

The Generations Jazz Orchestra will begin its 2026–27 Fall Season on:

Parents and students selected for the program should plan to attend the first rehearsal and be prepared to begin the season.

If you're serious about jazz, we want to hear from you.

Whether you're preparing for TMEA All-State, looking for a stronger performance environment, interested in improvisation, or simply ready to challenge yourself alongside other motivated young musicians, the Generations Jazz Program is built to help you grow.

Come prepared. Come ready to learn. Come ready to play.

Please contact JAZZ Nation at: info@jazznation.org