Rudy Guidry
Rudy Guidry, 20 Seattle Cascades, 2006; Blue Knights Tuba, 2007-2009 How did you choose your corps? My high school band director was the brass arranger for the Blue Knights and told me about an open spot in the tuba line during the 2007 pre-season. I filled the spot and fell in love with the corps. I stuck with Blue Knights because of the sense of family that I've found here year after year. In your experience, what's the best way to prepare for an audition? Practice the audition materials constantly. Make sure you are 100 or at least close to 100 percent prepared for the audition. What can a prospective corps member expect when he/she shows up for an audition weekend? It can be a bit intimidating with hundreds of people auditioning for select spots. Competition might be high, but stay focused and you'll be fine. The first time you auditioned, was the process different from what you expected it to be? Yes, it was. I thought the staff members were going to be harsh by critiquing every little thing I was playing. But the audition process ended up being a lot more comfortable and relaxed than I had imagined. Were you nervous at your audition? Yes, I was nervous. I made sure to relax and have confidence in myself, making sure that I put enough time into preparing the audition materials. What do you think is most important for someone to take away from the audition experience? You'll learn how to perform under pressure and how to be prepared for anything. Relax! Any other advice? Always have an open mind, positive attitude, be willing to work hard and always strive for the best from yourself and other corps mates. Emotions can get the best of people, but if you stay positive and always strive to do your best, you can make your drum corps experience something spectacular. The drum corps experience is one that will stick with you the rest of your life, whether you march in a corps for one year or seven years. Learn more about corps audition dates, locations and additional info.