Admission into the Lamar University Cardinal Jazz Orchestra is determined via a relaxed audition process administered at the beginning of the Fall semester. All students who have experience or an interest in performing as part of a Jazz Band, regardless of major, are encouraged to schedule an audition.
Note: The auditions described on this page are only for placement in the Cardinal Jazz Orchestra. To audition for one of our concert bands, The Wind Ensemble or The Symphonic Band, please visit the Concert Bands Audition Page. Otherwise, to learn more about joining the Music Department as a Music Major or Music Minor, please visit www.lamar.edu/auditions.
Auditions for saxophones, trumpets, and trombones will take place during the afternoon on Wednesday, August 21 in the Music Building. Sign-up sheets will be posted on the large bulletin boards across from the Music Department office on the first floor of the Simmons Music Building by August 1.
Auditions for rhythm section (piano, bass, guitar and drums) will take place at 11:30 AM on Friday, August 23 in the Music Building Band Hall, room 128. There will be no sign-ups for rhythm section auditions; everyone should arrive at the same time.
Results will be posted in the music building and distributed via email after auditions have concluded.
The first rehearsal date/time will be announced via email. Please review the course schedule for regular ensemble rehearsal times.
The audition process is coordinated and facilitated by Dr. McMahan. All questions, as well as inquiries regarding the use of school instruments, etc. should be sent to him via email. Correspondence will then be routed to the appropriate person(s), if necessary.
For questions specific to the Cardinal Jazz Orchestra, please contact Dr. Banister via email.
There are no requirements with regard to attire during auditions. However, presenting a good image of yourself does have a positive impact upon the person hearing your audition. Our advice would be to go the middle route: clean casual or business casual with good personal grooming and hygiene.
Students participating in the Lamar University performing ensembles receive one unit of academic credit each semester. Once audition results have been announced, members will be provided instructions regarding how to enroll for the appropriate course.
Generally speaking, the best advice is to “be yourself” and “be prepared”. Although very simple and straightforward, if you can manage to fulfill both those ideals, you will have a wonderful audition.
Eric Hoover, Past President of the National Flute Association, also provided some general advice that would benefit anyone performing an audition (from middle school to the professional level.)