JM International is calling all young jazz musicians aged 18-26 to submit their applications for the 2024 edition of the JM Jazz World Orchestra!
The JM Jazz World Orchestra stands as the foremost global youth jazz ensemble, bringing together exceptionally talented jazz musicians chosen through a worldwide open audition process conducted by an international panel of judges. Every summer, the orchestra collaborates with some of the world's most accomplished conductors, instrumentalists, and composers and embarks on an annual tour through renowned European venues and jazz festivals.
We are seeking highly talented jazz musicians aged 18 to 26, proficient in playing instruments such as saxophone, trombone, trumpet, horn, tuba, guitar, bass, drums, percussion, piano, and vocals. If you are an improviser, we warmly welcome players of all other instruments as well. The ability to read sheet music is a prerequisite, but above all, a genuine passion for jazz is paramount!
The JM Jazz World Orchestra offers an unparalleled opportunity to perform alongside fellow top-tier young jazz musicians from across the globe. It also provides a unique chance to learn from some of the world's most accomplished jazz virtuosos who lead, guide, and perform alongside the orchestra. Beyond maintaining the highest musical standards, this orchestra offers an invaluable cross-cultural learning experience, giving participants a taste of life as internationally touring musicians.
INTRODUCING OUR ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
We are delighted to announce the return of trombonist, composer/arranger, and educator Luis Bonilla as Artistic Director of the 2024 edition. Luis Bonilla, a US-Costa Rican talent, has an impressive track record as a sideman with legends like McCoy Tyner, Dizzy Gillespie, Lester Bowie, Tom Harrell, Freddie Hubbard, Astrud Gilberto, Willie Colon, and Toshiko Akiyoshi. His versatility and dedication have made him a sought-after musician in the international pop scene, performing with artists like Tony Bennett, Alejandro Sanz, Diana Ross, Marc Anthony, La India, Mary J. Blige, and Phil Collins. Bonilla has also imparted his knowledge at prestigious US and European music institutions, making him a respected figure in music education. Since 2013, he has served as the musical director for the JM Jazz World International Youth Jazz Orchestra, venturing on tours across Europe. Bonilla has been a guest artist and educator at numerous colleges and music schools in the US and abroad, including the University of Memphis, the University of Northern Iowa, Riverside City College, the University of Wellington (NZ), and many more. Presently, he teaches at the Universität für Musik und darstellende Kunst in Graz, Austria.
GROZNJAN IS CALLING!
The 2024 session is scheduled for July starting with a rehearsal session in the enchanting Istrian village of Groznjan, Croatia, which offers the ideal ambience for rehearsals, relaxation, and immersing oneself in the musical history of the village's ancient stones. The JM Jazz World session commences with a week of rehearsals, followed by a 5-7 day international concert and festival tour spanning Croatia, Montenegro, Slovenia, and Italy. The exact dates for 2024 will be communicated later.
HOW TO APPLY
Applicants should apply online via the following form by no later than March 8, 24:00 CET.
Candidates should be ready to provide the following info:
Full CV (it must contain information about your faculty, academy or school of music, and the experience acquired as a jazz musician).
Links to videos performing at least two different pieces: a theme and an improvisation. The candidates need to be clearly heard, with a significant soloist part.
A written recommendation from a music teacher (or similar).
A signed statement from either your parents, yourself, your university, school or a JMI National Member or Associate Section, stating that your travel costs to and from the venue/tour will be covered.
A copy of your passport
SELECTION PROCEDURE
A professional international jury will select the best candidates. The candidates who make it through the first selection may be asked to present additional material.
ANNOUNCEMENT OF RESULTS
The jury will select up to 25 musicians to form the JM Jazz World Orchestra 2024, as well as a reserves shortlist who may join the project in the case of cancellations. All candidates will be notified about the results by the end of April.
CONDITIONS
During your stay, all accommodation and material needs are provided by JM International. Transportation to and from the session Groznjan must be covered by the participant but may be sponsored by your national JM member organisation (www.jmi.net/members) or other local organisations or schools.
Musicians must take care of their visas and all other official requirements, as well as ensure they have sufficient pocket money for their private expenses.
If invitation letters are required please contact JM International (info@jmjazzworld.com) once selected.
You must have a good comprehension of English as all workshops will be in English. Spanish is welcome too.
Selected musicians must insure their instrument(s), travel and health.
MORE INFO
www.jmjazzworld.org
+385 981 696 98 92 /+32 2 513 97 74