NFAA

Cinematic Arts

Dance

Jazz

Music

Voice

"Along with gaining deeper knowledge of the technical aspects of dance, I learned to approach my discipline with an open mind. "

- Lillian DiPiazza

JAZZ DANCE REQUIREMENTS

Jonathan Campbell
2006 NFAA youngARTS Winner in Jazz Dance

Participants are required to submit a videotaped audition that must include the following - in this order:

2 minutes maximum of technique as follows
2 minutes maximum of solo piece as follows

The presentation of technique and the prepared solo should display the full range of the participant's abilities.

JAZZ TECHNIQUE
The presentation of jazz technique should include combinations in place and through space at slow and fast tempos that utilize torso isolations and demonstrate rhythmic sophistication and improvisation skills.

Adagio - controlled extensions in centered and off centered positions, parallel and turned out rotations of the limbs; shaping of the torso; shifting of the body axis.
Allegro - demonstrating command of rhythmic complexity and speed; large jumps, legs folded and extended demonstrating elevation.
In Place - total body movement at all spatial levels demonstrating rhythm, musical phrasing and body isolations.
In Space - combinations demonstrating turns (including pirouettes) and syncopation at slow and fast tempos.

NOTE: Video must include movements-in-place with the camera framing the entire body as well as movement in and through space, demonstrating advanced techniques and accomplishment whenever possible. Although music may be included, this segment should not be choreographed.

JAZZ SOLO

A prepared solo of the participant's choosing lasting no more that two minutes. Participants are responsible for obtaining all necessary releases for choreography as well as music, if applicable.

AUDITION APPAREL
Men and Women
leotard and tights or
unitard or
pants and fitted top
jazz shoes

All dancers must wear a color that is in contrast to the background.
Costumes are NOT allowed.

REQUIREMENTS FOR CONTENT OF DANCE VIDEOTAPE/DVD AUDITION:

	Do's (required)	Don'ts (can be disqualified)
1.	Submit a NEW DVD or VHS cassette.	Do not submit a mini-DV, mini-cassette or VCD.
2.	Announce your audition by stating your eight digit youngARTS ID# and the three digit category code. “My youngARTS ID# is 07009999/101.” (You will receive your ID# once you have completed the registration process). You must also include the name of the variation or title of the piece, choreographer, and composer.	Do not state your name or place it in or on the DVD/video case. Do not make any other comments.
3.	Use a fixed point of view for your camera. Shoot straight on, leaving the camera in one location.	Do not pan, move the camera or follow the dancer.
4.	Record your audition in a clearly defined interior space.	Do not record your video outside.
5.	Cuts between technique segments are acceptable.	Do not edit within the solo. Do not use special effects, dissolves, fades or wipes.
6.	Submit your audition materials according to the official mailing requirements (see left).	Do not send in pre-recorded live performances, such as recitals or concerts.

Recommendations Test your recordings before submitting for judging. Test your VHS Tape or DVD on a standard VHS or DVD player. Tapes or DVDs that cannot be played will be disqualified. The camera should be placed sufficiently close to the performer so that positioning and movement of all parts of the body are clearly visible. A brief full-face shot, half-body shot and full-body shot may be included at the end of the video. Please note that the registration fees are non-refundable even in the case of injury. You must also be free of injury to participate in youngARTS Week if you are chosen as a finalist. Make sure the sound and picture are both of good quality. The backdrop should be neutral and free of creases and breaks. NOTE: DVDs/Videotapes will not be returned. Participants should make and keep copies of all materials submitted. NFAA is not responsible for materials lost or damaged in the mail. DVDs/Videotapes that cannot be viewed will be disqualified.