CADENCE is Grossmont College’s Vocal Jazz ensemble that focuses on learning ensemble repertoire and performance skills. Consisting of 7-12 auditioned singers and a 3-piece band, the ensemble performs standard and contemporary jazz repertoire. Basic musical concepts of improvisation, solo, and larger ensemble performance are incorporated into this course offering. As part of the performing and rehearsal environment, Cadence regularly works with its own jazz instrumental combo, providing ensemble, combo, and soloist opportunities for ensemble members.
Public performance is required. Performing 2-3 times a semester, past venues include the CMEA Festival, Oceanside Jazz Festival, PLNU Vocal Jazz Festival, and Dizzys Jazz Club.
Audition Requirements
All interested students should be present at the beginning for a short informational meeting, which will be followed by individual auditions and interviews.
Audition dates and times are as follows...
Thursday Jan 23rd 4:30-6:3
Tuesday Jan 28th 5:30-6:3
• Vocalists: bring a solo piece to sing (preferably jazz, but it can be anything non-classical). Your audition will be accompanied
• Instrumentalists: (Rhythm section – piano/guitar/bass/drums) bring a jazz standard of your choice to play. It is preferred that you are able to play the melody, ‘comp’ changes, and take a short solo. Please contact the director for an audition.
Thurs, Jan 31 - Vocal CALLBACK Auditions 5:30-6:
SPRING 2020: Class rehearsals will focus on ensemble group singing in a cappella format and accompanied by
Sign up here!
For more info, please feel free to contact Melonie Grinnell, director at melonie.grinnell@gcccd.edu or the music dept. at (619) 644-7254.
Please check out our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/vocaljazzgrossmontcollege/
Frequently Asked Questions (
Why can’t I register for the class yet?
There is no pre-registration for the class, permission numbers will be only given out to students who complete the audition and are invited to become members of the Cadence Vocal Jazz Program.
Do I have to sing or play in front of other people?
The first round of auditions and interviews will not be held in front of other students, just with the director. Auditions will be videotaped for director reference only. Bring something to sing or play and the director will accompany you on piano. If you are invited to the callback, that process will take place with other students participating.
When will the callback list be posted?
The callback list will be determined by Wednesday at
What can I do to prepare myself for my audition?
•Make sure you have checked out the Audition Information.
•LISTEN to as much jazz as you can - both instrumental and vocal. Check out jazzandblues.org for a free jazz radio station online, or the KSDS app.
•Select an audition song from jazzstandards.com and obtain the sheet music.
•Consider downloading the iRealb app to practice with automatic accompaniment.
We are very much looking forward to your audition - good luck!
Spring 2017 Performance Schedule subject to change
8800 Grossmont College Drive
El Cajon, California 92020
619-644-7000
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