Music Ensemble Auditions

Fall 2023
All new and returning members will need to complete this form. 
After completing the form above, please signup for an audition slot. 

Audition Information
The purpose of the audition is determine if you will be successfully in the context of the band program and which concert band (Concert Band White or Concert Band Orange) you will fit into best. Band placement also takes into account previous RIT ensemble participation, all-region/state/honor band experience, scheduling, seniority, and instrumentation needs. For more information please visit the Concert Band webpage.

When and Where?
Auditions for the Fall 2023 semester will be held August 22 through 28 in 10 minute slots. You will have the option to sign-up for a Zoom audition or in-person audition. Previous RIT Band members do not need to re-audition.
A link will be posted here in early August that will allow you to register for an audition slot.

What do I prepare?
The audition is designed to be quick and straightforward. Please prepare a 1-2 minute excerpt (solo, etude, etc…) that demonstrates your best playing abilities. The audition will also include some simple sight-reading. After the audition you will be notified whether you are admitted to the ensemble or given the option to enroll in lessons. You will receive a permission code for FNRT 252 at this time.

If you need an instrument, please let Prof. Camarillo know before the audition and we can coordinate instrument usage. RIT can provide the following instruments, albeit in limited quantities: oboe, bassoon, bass clarinet, tenor saxophone, baritone saxophone, trombone, euphonium, and tuba.

Questions regarding this audition process? Contact Professor Luke Camarillo

Fall 2023 Audition Information

• Please sign up for a 10 minute audition time on this Google sheet. 
• Please fill out the RIT Jazz Fall 2023 Google form.
• The audition will consist of:
  • 1.) Chromatic Scale 
    • Saxophones: low Bb to high F and back down
    • Brass: full usable range
    • Rhythm: N/A
  • 2.) Prepared section from a big band chart. Charts can be found here.
    • Note that rhythm section instruments must prepare both selections
  • 3.) Sight reading a jazz melody

  • 4.) Soloing over a concert Bb or F blues or tune of your choice - This is optional for joining a big band, but required for joining a jazz combo

*Guitar/piano/bass/drums must be able to read both chord changes (lead sheet) as well as written notation.

*Drummers may be asked to demonstrate different grooves (swing, bossa nova, rock, etc.)

Note to All Musicians
Big Bands will accept:
-6 saxophones
-4 trombones
-5 trumpets
-2 of each rhythm section instrument (guitar, piano, bass, drums)

Tuesday and Wednesday night combos will accept:
- 3 to 5 horn players
-guitar
-piano
-bass
-drums

Wednesday 5:00-6:15pm Combo:
This will be a weekly open workshop on improvisation and small group playing.

Fall 2023 Audition Information

Why the audition process? Music is something that goes all the way through our lives. In our ensemble, we will not only perform music and create artwork together, but also be part of the music-loving community and share our life stories. To help you best shine in your musical talents, it is vital for you and me to know more about you and the level of your ability. I cant wait to hear your playing in person and learn more about your goals at RIT - Dr. Ma

The Audition Process
Please note that returning members still need to meet with Dr. Ma for seating assignment purposes.

• 1.) Fill out the online survey by Wednesday, August 23, 11:59pm
  • String and Harps
  • Woodwinds, Brass, Percussions, and Piano
• 2.) Prepare two of the excerpts provided for your instrument
  • Find Excerpts Here 
• 3.) Sign up for an audition time 
  • Strings and Harp Audition Times
  • Winds, Percussions and Piano Audition Times
• 4.) Come with any questions you have for Dr. Ma. 

Auditions are available on a first come first serve basis. Please schedule your audition time sooner rather than later.

If you would like to meet earlier than Thursday, August 24, or have a conflict, please contact Dr. Ma at ysmgsl@rit.edu to arrange for an alternative time.

The general RITPO meeting will take place on Monday, August 28, 5pm, SAU - A130

Individual auditions will take place during the first weeks of the fall semester. Interested students are encouraged to email Thatcher Lyman at tdlspa@rit.edu for more information and to schedule a time to meet. Please email Mr. Lyman with any questions and for more information on singing safely with the RIT Singers this fall.

No preparation or audition required. Contact Director Kerfala Bangoura for more information about joining the ensemble.

The first class meeting of the Spring 2023 semester will be held on Tuesday, January 17 at 5pm in SAU A120. Please email Prof. Bangoura prior to attending (kfbgla@rit.edu).

Prior instruction not required, no audition necessary. Please contact the director, Mr. Ted Canning, for additional information about joining the ensemble.