Generations Jazz Orchestra Auditions

MacArthur High School Band Hall | 2923 MacArthur View, San Antonio, TX 78217 

🕢 Check-in begins at 1:30 PM

🎺 San Antonio Area High School Musicians — Your Season Starts Here!

Are you ready to join an elite ensemble, receive world-class instruction, and perform live at premier venues like Jazz, TX?

JAZZ Nation is thrilled to invite dedicated high school musicians to audition for the Generations Big Band—a premier, trade school-style program designed to develop the next generation of jazz artists.

Open to all San Antonio area High School students playing one of the following instruments:

• Alto, Tenor, and Bari Saxophone
• Trumpet, Trombone
• Piano, Bass, Drums, Guitar

Eligibility: Students must be enrolled in their school’s band, orchestra, choir, or other music program and be able to commit to all scheduled rehearsals on Sunday Afternoons from 3–5 PM and performances.

Audition materials can be found here.

1. Prepared Etude

• Perform the Swing Etude from the 2025 TMEA All-State Jazz Audition Material for your instrument.
• Prepare the etude in its entirety, observing all written articulations, dynamics, and style. (Note: The official excerpt cut will be provided at the audition.)

2. Improvisation

• Prepare an improvisation of your choice (TMEA Etude, a Blues, or other selection).
• You may be asked to improvise on a 12-bar blues in B♭ or F.
• Students must bring any necessary backing tracks.

3. Scales to Prepare

• Major Scales: B♭, E♭, A♭, D♭, G, C, F
• Chromatic Scale: Full range
• Blues Scales: B♭, F, C

4. Sight-Reading

• A short excerpt in big band style (swing, Latin, or ballad) will be provided at the audition.

5. Rhythm Section (Additional Requirements)

• Piano/Guitar: Prepared jazz piece demonstrating comping and soloing.
• Bass: Walk a bass line on All of Me, then play the melody once.
• Drums: Demonstrate medium swing (brushes & sticks), fast swing, and a big band “hits” setup.

Evaluation Criteria: Tone & Intonation, Style & Phrasing, Reading Accuracy, Improvisation Skills, Section Blend & Compatibility, and Professionalism.

We strongly encourage students to use the JAZZ Nation TMEA All-State Resources page to sharpen their skills and prepare for audition day.

This page includes:

• Backing tracks for TMEA improvisation
• Etude “shed guides” by JAZZ Nation clinicians
• Instrument-specific video resources

If you are in need of any of the above-mentioned material for auditions, consult your music teacher or email us at info@jazznation.org  

Participation is tuition-based for the entire season, which includes rehearsals, performances, and the Summer JAZZ Institute.

$450 total for the entire season (A significant discount, as the Summer Institute alone normally costs $450).

• Fall: $150 (Due November 1, 2025)
• Spring: $150 (Due January 3, 2026)
• Summer Institute: $150 (Due June 6, 2026)

Tuition Includes: Weekly rehearsals with instruction from Karlos Elizondo and JAZZ Nation Staff, concert performances (including Jazz, TX), guest artist collaborations, masterclasses, studio recording opportunities, and automatic entry into the Summer JAZZ Institute.

From community stages to Jazz, TX, our students are everywhere this season!

Members of the Generations Jazz Orchestra will perform at a variety of venues, including Blue Star, Main Plaza, and local high schools. They will also have the incredible opportunity to learn from and collaborate with amazing guest artists and clinicians throughout the year.

Sign Up for your audition slot now - Click here!

Can’t Make the Audition? Email us to discuss options and online submission possibilities.

For more information or audition material, contact:

📧 info@jazznation.org