How many students participate in the Freshman Jazz Ensemble?
A. The size of the Freshman Jazz Ensemble has ranged over the years from 20 to 35. A typical size jazz ensemble (such as our other three New Trier jazz ensembles) has 5 saxes, 4 or 5 trombones, 4 or 5 trumpets, plus the rhythm section. With the exception of rhythm players, we try to accept everyone into Freshman Jazz Ensemble who plays trumpet, trombone or saxophone, but auditions may be necessary if there are too many of a particular instrument to make the playing experience both musical and worthwhile. When there are auditons, they are done with a cassette tape.
