Drums

Specific drums admission requirements

For the entrance audition for the Jazz & Pop Zwolle course, you need to prepare five pieces that are different in character and tempo. Besides the general admission requirements, there are specific admission requirements for each instrument. 

For the entrance audition for drums:

• at least one of the pieces must be a Jazz or Jazz-inflected piece;
• at least one of the pieces must be a Pop or Pop-inflected piece;
• at least two of the five pieces must be performed with a band;
• one of the five pieces must be a snare drum étude;
• one of the five pieces must be a written solo, at least at the level of 'Advanced funk studies' by Rick Latham.

Apart from that, you are free to choose the style of the pieces. You can therefore choose any kind of Jazz, Latin or Pop music or a mix of various styles. Own compositions (band repertoire, solo pieces, études etc.) are very much appreciated.

During the audition, you will perform a minimum of two and a maximum of three of the prepared pieces. 
You will also play several exercises (see below). The first piece you perform will be one you have chosen yourself. The other pieces will be chosen by the assessors.

You should preferably audition with your own band. Not able to do that? Then you can play with students from the academy of music. You must request this ahead of time and there will be a charge.

Exercises, skills and knowledge

In addition to playing the pieces referred to above, the following will also be covered:

• playing rolls;
• playing basic rudiments (such as single strokes, double strokes and various paradiddles) on and across the drum kit;
• playing a simple medium swing jazz standard with an AABA or ABAC form of sixteen or thirty-two beats. These must be accompanied at a steady tempo and with a feel for form and style. 4 by 4 is played;
• after a short preparation, playing a short solo piece at sight.

Main criteria

Many aspects are considered in the final assessment. Some important ones are:

• a basically relaxed and effective posture;
• enjoyment of playing;
• interplay and interaction;
• a feel for your musical role in the band;
• a stable, dynamic and convincing sound with a good balance;
• rhythmic stability – improvisation and creativity;
• presentation and charisma;
• openness and a broad musical interest.

Major lecturers