Trombone

Specific Trombone 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 trombone entrance audition:

• you must prepare at least three pieces from the Jazz & Pop repertoire;
• you must also prepare a (jazz) blues piece on which to improvise If possible, at least one of the five pieces should date from after 2000. 

Apart from that, you are free to choose the style of the pieces, so you can play any kind of Jazz, Latin or Pop music as well as a mix of various styles. You can also include one or two études in the programme. These may be études from the classical or Jazz & Pop repertoire. 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.

Exercises, skills and knowledge

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

• playing major and minor third scales in all keys and the chromatic scale (insofar as the range of the instrument and the performer allows, the scales should be played over two octaves);
• playing major and minor triads in all keys;
• improvising by ear with piano accompaniment based on a simple chord diagram;
• repeating a simple phrase by ear;
• after a brief preparation, playing a simple theme from sheet music;
• after a brief preparation, improvising on a simple chord diagram from sheet music.

Main criteria

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

• a basically good embouchure that is capable of development;
• adequate technical command of the instrument;
• enjoyment of playing – ensemble and interaction;
• presentation and charisma;
• awareness of role;
• tone and expressiveness;
• rhythmic stability – improvisation and creativity;
• openness and a broad musical interest.

Major lecturer