The Jazz Program at West Aurora consists of four auditioned jazz bands, the Jazz Ensemble, the Jazz Band, the Stage Band, and the Lab Band. These groups meet during the school day and outside the school day for the entire school year. In addition to these four ensembles there is an Early Bird Jazz Band. Participation in the Jazz Program is not mandatory, but in order to participate in the jazz band you must audition for placement in a concert ensemble. The only exceptions made are those who play bass or guitar. Lack of participation in the Jazz Program does not affect the student’s concert ensemble grade. Audition information and materials are linked below.
Jazz Ensemble
Membership in the Jazz Ensemble is open to all students who are enrolled in one of the concert ensembles at West Aurora. These students must have at least one year of membership/experience in the Jazz Program in order to audition. Auditions are completed through video recording that is submitted during the 2nd semester of the previous school year. The Jazz Ensemble performs at many school district functions, as well as community performances and festivals.
*Note: Extra rehearsals may be added throughout the year.
Jazz Band
Membership in the Jazz Band is open to all students who are enrolled in one of the concert ensembles at West Aurora. Auditions are completed through video recording that is submitted during the 2nd semester of the previous school year. The instrumentation for Jazz Band is the same as Jazz Ensemble, depending upon personnel availability.
*Note: Extra rehearsals may be added throughout the year.
Jazz Workshop
Membership in the Jazz Workshop is open to all students who are enrolled in one of the concert ensembles at West Aurora. Auditions are completed through video recording that is submitted during the 2nd semester of the previous school year. The instrumentation for Jazz Workshop is more flexible than Jazz Band and Jazz Ensemble. It is considered an "entry-level" jazz group for players that are new to the genre.
Early Bird Jazz Band
The Early Bird Jazz Band is open to all band students interested in learning jazz. The group rehearses two mornings per week from 6:45 – 7:20 a.m. The instrumentation varies depending upon the number of students on each instrument and students are encouraged to study a secondary instrument in this setting. Freshman and Upperclassmen are all welcome to join. There will be a sign up for this group in late November and rehearsals begin after marching season ends.