Who can apply to study Jazz Composition? 

Applicants must demonstrate an exceptional level of skills in their specialisation in a practical exam and meet the conditions of the admission procedure. The practical exam determines the professional and especially artistic qualification for studies in the chosen specialisation of the given study programme. Percussion Instruments, Jazz Interpretation, Jazz Composition and Arrangement. The entrance examination takes the form of a solo or chamber interpretation. For the Jazz Composition and Arrangement specialisation, the applicant presents at least one composition or arrangement of his or her own.

What are the specific conditions of the entrance examination and what do applicants need to prepare?

 The entrance examination is divided into six parts – a theoretical, practical and oral examination, a piano test, an interpretation test and a general knowledge test with focus on jazz history.

(1) theoretical examination – intonation and rhythm (aural dictation) – movement of 3 voices in chords, writing the melody in music notation, identification of chords (seven chords – major, minor, diminished and others), identification of common harmonic connections

(2) practical examination – readiness for composition, the applicant chooses two of the three areas listed below:

1.  harmonisation of the given theme, four-part notation (without piano)
2.  composing a counterpoint voice to the melody and harmony (without piano)
3.  creating a short study based on various musical material assignments (selection of notes, intervals, rhythmic lengths, etc.) All without using the piano.

(3) oral examination – presentation of own compositions in front of the committee (in person on the piano or other instrument, or from a recording), interview with the applicant.

(4) piano test – demonstration of basic piano skills

(5) interpretation performance – own interpretation of presented compositions, solo or with ensemble

(6) general knowledge test with focus on jazz history