Audition Instructions

*New* Video submissions are due no later than Tuesday, May 12, 2026 by 11:59pm.

Click Here for Audition Submission Portal

Click Here for Audition Music

Auditions will be recorded (video) and submitted only via Google Forms for the Katy ISD Jazz Workshop. This audition is to ensure that students are placed in the correct ensemble and correct part for the workshop. VERY IMPORTANT: Audition recordings are due by no later than Tuesday May 12th at 11:59pm. Audition results will be posted on the first day of the workshop. Please email johnliner@katyisd.org if you have technical issues submitting the auditions.

Students Currently Enrolled in Grades 6-8: Perform All Of Sections "A" and "B". 

Students Currently Enrolled in Grades 9-12: Perform The Entire Etude

Audition Music

Auditions are used for placement, not acceptance. Every student is welcome—we just want to match each musician with the right group. It is HIGHLY recommended that you listen to/study the links below. These "Recommended Recordings" will help you in your music preparation. Click the appropriate instrument below to see your audition music. Even if you are new to jazz, do your very best. We will place you in an ensemble where we can best support you.

Notes about the music: This year's audition is based on the jazz standard "Blues In The Closet " by Oscar Pettiford. Listening to the "Recommended Recordings" below will help you prepare your music.

Recommended Recording 1 Recommended Recording 2

CLICK HERE to access the audition music.

Additional information:

• There is no tempo requirement. Take your time and play your music at a speed that allows you to perform your best. 

• Make certain that you and your instrument are clearly visible in the video recordings. 

• Metronomes are not required but can be used in the recording if it helps you.

• Percussionists can perform on any mallet instrument except glockenspiel (bells). This can include xylophone, marimba, practice marimba, or vibraphone. Percussionists can also opt to audition or drum set instead of OR in addition to mallets.

• Pianists can perform on any piano, digital or acoustic.

• Guitarists can perform on any electric guitar. Acoustic guitar will not be useable at the workshop.

• Bassists can perform on an upright bass (bowed or plucked), electric bass, or bass guitar. If you choose to bring an upright bass, it must have a pickup installed.

• Drum set players, please submit a video showcasing 30 seconds of each style: Swing, Funk or Rock, and any Latin groove of your choice. The video should not exceed 100 seconds in total.