With the 2011 Drum Corps International season in the history books, drum corps throughout the country are already preparing for a wave of new recruits, which means one thing – auditions.
For those wishing to join a corps, preparation is essential. Fortunately, most corps offer materials online detailing all of their technical requirements and explaining their respective audition processes.
"As you're deciding where you might like to audition, it's important to try to get a feel for the organization – check out past performances and talk to current or former members," says Boston Crusaders Executive Director Tom Spataro. "Contact staff members; they'll be more than happy to tell you about their corps."
When you're researching corps to join, be sure to factor in things like location, fee structure, music and marching styles.
While some corps can be pretty demanding and having a solid marching band or drum corps background helps, experience isn't always necessary, and other organizations may provide a spot ideal for beginners. Even if your nerves get the better of you and you fall flat at your audition, the process will still be rewarding. "Sometimes performers will give up without even trying, and what a loss that is," says Spataro.
"We encourage everyone to come out to the audition, even if it's just to check out the corps. If someone doesn't feel ready to commit to the summer, it's a great way to prepare for the future. Even spending one weekend with a corps will leave you with a great educational experience."
Within this page are various resources to help get you started in finding a corps that you might like to join. Always be sure to contact the organization of your choice directly to confirm dates, locations and other audition requirements.
Good luck, and we hope to see you on the field in the summer of 2012!
Published in Drum Corps International Magazine, this article gives an overview of the audition process and what it takes to become a member of the elite groups of Marching Music's Major League.
Every fall and winter thousands of marching musicians vie for a limited number of positions in Drum Corps International ensembles across the United States. Traveling to new locations, navigating crowds of unfamiliar faces, learning new techniques and overcoming nervousness; the audition experience can sometimes be daunting for both prospective and returning members alike! To help put you at ease and steer you in the right direction for your upcoming audition, we've compiled the expert advice and first-hand experiences of these current corps members. Click each name below to learn more.
Listed below are audition dates and locations for many drum corps across the country. As groups finalize plans for their 2012 auditions, information posted here will be added, updated and changed periodically.
Many drum corps, both World and Open Class, will be looking for members to fill open positions through the spring and up to the start of the summer season. Visit their websites and Facebook pages (find a complete list at DCI.org/corps) to find out if a corps has a spot for you!
Enter your birthday to determine if you are within the age limit to join a Drum Corps International corps.
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Drum Corps International's age limit is 21 years of age with one exception. Corps members who turn 22 on or after June 1 are eligible to march during that year. Minimum age limits may vary from corps to corps.
Music City - Nashville, TN
