Drum corps get set for auditions this weekend

A dozen Drum Corps International units from the ranks of World and Open Classes will be geared up this weekend hosting a variety of audition and educational experience camps throughout the United States for prospective drum corps members.

Many drum corps kicked off their season during the Thanksgiving holiday or even before then. For some drum corps like the Carolina Crown, this weekend will mark the first rehearsal/audition camp for all sections within the corps. Other drum corps like Phantom Regiment will utilize the weekend by focusing solely on specific sections, such as percussion.

“Like many corps who will meet over the next few days, we are extremely excited about kicking off the 2008 drum corps season,” said Carolina Crown Executive Director Kevin Smith. Along with the corps management team and educational staff, Smith will welcome veteran and prospective corps members to start off Carolina Crown’s 19th season.

Some corps including Revolution and Bluecoats will take a regional approach this weekend and branch out to host audition camps in a completely different state to attract new members.

In all, nearly 9,000 young adults from across the globe are expected to audition this fall and winter for the chance to perform with one of the world’s most elite and exclusive marching music ensembles.

“Based on the overwhelming number of pre-registrations again this year, we think we will likely have another strong turnout with students from 24 states and three countries including the U.S., Japan and our first-ever student from Thailand!” Smith said about Carolina Crown’s program.

Corps audition and rehearsal camps scheduled for the weekend of Nov. 30 through Dec. 2:

For the most up to date information, visit these corps’ individual Web sites.