DRUMMER CAFE - Community Forum

I'm doing this jazz camp in a couple of weeks and there are placement auditions for it. They request that students "perform a piece of music in jazz style", which isn't very specific.  How are you supposed to know whether to memorize a song, bring a track to play along with, have sheet music, or whatever?

 I'm not really sure how to approach this. Is there anyone that has done this sort of thing that could help?

I guess they just want to see where you are at so they can best place you with a particular group (who match your ability perhaps).
Taking music to play along with might be a hassle, if something goes wrong with the sound system it'll throw you.
I'd suggest a short section of jazz groove with a brief solo element thrown in.
I don't know, I'm not expert on the US camp scene.

I agree with Chris.

I can remember (30 years ago), when I was auditioning for similar types of music camps. You just need to have something to play for them. If you have sheet music for the judges to look at as you play, great, but don't worry about that.

If you are going to the camp as a drumset player, then you could just play a short solo within the Jazz genre. Keep it simple, focus on your time keeping skills, and show your ability to move around the kit.

I can guarantee you that what the judges are looking for is you time keeping and ability to keep it together. There are a number of drumset solos written in the Jazz vein, but with the camp being only a few weeks away, I would focus on something you've already done (or do).

If you were in Jazz band in school, think of a piece of music that you played in band that you could play for the audition. Use a piece that has some activity on the drums, not just straight time. Also, if you can, choose a piece that is actually swing.

If you play mallets, choose a short piece to play on the Vibes.