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Jazz Performance

Go behind-the-scenes, plus see and hear more from our students on our ECU YouTube channel.

Courses offered

These course pages detail entry requirements, fee and interview information. You can also apply from these pages.

Recognised as one of the finest institutions for studying jazz in the southern hemisphere, the Jazz course at WAAPA consistently produces internationally acclaimed musicians.

With improvisation as a core skill, these musicians enter the industry as versatile and knowledgeable artists. This is demonstrated by the careers our graduates have developed, touring the globe playing jazz festivals with their own groups and with some of the biggest names in not only jazz, but also the pop world, from Pat Metheny and the Yellowjackets to artists like Adele.

WAAPA Jazz students study with our internationally renowned staff to gain a deep understanding of ensemble playing (both large and small), improvisation, composition, theory, music business skills and more.

In addition, WAAPA offers the most comprehensive visiting artist program in the country, allowing students to perform and learn from the best of the best, both nationally and internationally. During their studies, WAAPA Jazz students also have the option of undertaking a 2-week summer school in New York at NYU and another in Europe.

Notable alumni

  • Dane Alderson (bass)
  • Sam Anning (bass)
  • Tal Cohen (piano)
  • Tim Jago (guitar)
  • Mat Jodrell (trumpet)
  • Carl Mackey (saxophone)
  • Sarah McKenzie (vocals/piano)
  • Harry Mitchell (piano)
  • Jamie Oehlers (saxophone)
  • Linda May Han Oh (bass)
  • Konrad Paszkudzki (piano)
  • Vanessa Perica (composer/conductor)
  • Troy Roberts (saxophone)
  • Tim Van Der Kuil (guitar)

Audition and interview information

Application Deadline 
1st Round 7 September 2026
2nd Round 16 November 2026

Perth Live Audition Dates
1st Round 20 September 2026
2nd Round 30 November - 4 December 2026

If WAAPA is unable to facilitate in-person audition/recalls in any city, applicants will be assessed via video auditions or online recalls.

If you have any questions about your WAAPA Audition or Interview, please contact us using this form WAAPA Audition/Interview Enquiry Form

Staff

The Course Coordinator for Jazz is Tom O'Halloran.

For a full list of WAAPA Performance staff, please visit the WAAPA Staff listing.

More information

For domestic student enquiries, please go to Future Students.

For international student enquiries, please go to International Students.

For a full list of WAAPA courses, please visit WAAPA Study areas.

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