Are you in Band, Orchestra, or Color Guard? Are you an 8th Grade fine arts student at Apollo JH or Liberty JH? Do you play a specialty instrument like piano, electric bass, or guitar? Then you are eligible to signup for the Berkner Jazz Band!
All eligible students who signup for Jazz Band will be added to our 8th Period Jazz Class! Students will audition for a specific performance ensemble next semester (similar to how you audition for band, orchestra, or choir). Audition Packets are available now... scroll below for your instrument-specific audition packet!
All current jazz band members will audition in classes on Tues, May 15 and Thurs, May 17. All incoming 9th grade jazz members may schedule an appointment with Mr. Townsend (austin.townsend@risd.org) from May 1 to May 15. Any students who do not complete an audition will complete their audition on the first day of jazz class on Wednesday, August 13.
2025 Placement Audition Info
(Learn more about the placement audition... click here!)
Part 1: Improvisation over 12 bar blues in Bb Major
Click here for a sample backing track for your improvisation
Part 2: selected 112-24 measures of previous Jazz All-State Material
Drums and Rhythm section instruments will perform assigned excerpts to assess style, comping, and timing
2025 Audition Materials
(Click below on your instrument!)
2025 Ensemble Info
(Learn more about the different ensembles... click here!)
All students will audition for their assigned ensemble during classes on the firt week of school. Students can view print off another copy of their placement materials below, as well as see the following practice materials for improvisation.