Jazz Area Ensemble Auditions for Fall 2026

The U of A Department of Music invites all students to participate in Jazz Area Ensemble placement auditions for the fall 2026 semester! The jazz program offers a wide range of ensemble opportunities in jazz, world and popular music. All instruments and all majors are welcome to audition and participate. 

This audition is necessary for the following ensembles:

World Music Ensemble — meets Wednesdays 6 - 7:10 p.m.

U of A Jazz Orchestra — meets Tuesdays and Thursdays 2 - 3:15 p.m.

Latin American Music Ensemble — meets Mondays 5:15 - 6:05 p.m.; Thursdays 6 - 7 p.m.

Jazz Combos (Times TBD)

To audition, students must fill out the audition form.

Students will audition in person or by virtual format, if they have been given permission by Dr. Hertzog first. The in-person auditions will take place in the Music Building Aug. 16-18.

• Sunday, Aug. 16: 2 - 5 p.m. (MUSC 321)
• Monday, Aug. 17: 5 - 7 p.m. (MUSC 321)
• Tuesday, Aug. 18: 2 - 3:15 p.m. (BAND 128 Epley Band Building)

Any questions concerning auditions or ensembles may be directed to Dr. Jake Hertzog, jazz area coordinator: jhertzog@uark.edu. 

Jazz Area Ensembles for Fall 2026

Each ensemble type offered this semester is as follows:

U of A Jazz Orchestra

The Jazz Orchestra is the oldest jazz ensemble on the U of A campus. As a big band, the Jazz Orchestra performs standards in the genre and pushes the boundaries of jazz music with new compositions and arrangements, many by the faculty. 

Jazz Combos

The Jazz Area offers a number of jazz combos that work with faculty members and student colleagues. Combos are formed based on need, and performance is student-driven. Ensembles study and perform a range of small-group jazz from bebop to fusion to modern.

Latin American Ensemble

The Latin American Ensemble performs music from Afro-Caribbean and Latin American traditions. This ensemble explores the music of one of the most culturally diverse regions in the world.

World Music Ensemble

The World Music Ensemble uses improvisation to explore many cultures of the world. A unique feature in the jazz program, the ensemble uses folk and Western instruments in performing music from Africa, Asia and the Americas.