Get ready for JM Jazz World 2024!

AN OPPORTUNITY LIKE NO OTHER

JM International invites young talented jazz musicians between the ages of 18-26 to apply for the 2024 edition of the JM Jazz World Orchestra!

The JM Jazz World Orchestra is the world’s premier international youth jazz orchestra, comprised of talented jazz musicians, selected through a global open audition by an international jury. The band works with some of the planet’s finest conductors, players and composers and tours annually, appearing at prestigious European venues and jazz festivals.

We are looking for highly talented musicians between the ages of 18 and 26, playing saxophone, trombone, trumpet, horn, tuba, guitar, bass, drums, percussion, piano, vibes and vocals, and if you improvise, all other instruments are welcome. It is essential that you read sheet music, but the most important thing is your love for jazz!

The JMJWO is a unique opportunity to play with other first-class, young jazz musicians from around the world and to learn from some of the planet’s most accomplished jazz virtuosos who direct, mentor and perform alongside the orchestra. On top of maintaining the highest standards of musicianship, the orchestra offers an invaluable intercultural learning experience and a taste of life as an internationally touring musician.

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.

CROATIA CALLING!

The 2024 session is scheduled to occur in July in the enchanting Istrian village of Groznjan, Croatia. Groznjan provides an idyllic backdrop for rehearsals, relaxation, and an immersive exploration of the rich musical heritage woven into the village's historic stones. While the exact dates are yet to be confirmed, the rehearsal session is anticipated to commence in July 2024.

The JM Jazz World session will kick off with an intensive week of rehearsals, followed by an exciting 5 to 7-day international concert/festival tour across Croatia, Slovenia, and Italy. Stay tuned for the official dates, as this promises to be a memorable musical journey in the heart of Europe.

HOW TO APPLY

Applicants should apply online, no later than March 8, 23:59 CET.

Candidates should be prepared to provide the following info:

• Your full CV (It must contain information about the faculty of music, academy and school of music, and experience acquired as a jazz musician).
• Links to videos with you performing at least 2 different pieces: a theme and an improvisation. The candidates need to be clearly heard, with an important soloist part.
• A written recommendation from a music teacher or similar.
• A signed statement from either your parents, yourself, university, school or a JMI National Member or Associate Section, stating that your travel costs to and from the 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 reserve shortlist of musicians, 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 in Groznjan must be covered by the participant but may be sponsored by your national JM member organization (www.jmi.net/members) or other local organizations or schools.
• Musicians must take care of their own 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 own instrument(s), travel and health.

MORE INFO

info@jmjazzworld.com

www.jmjazzworld.org

+385 981 696 98 92 /+32 2 513 97 74