DCI Drum Corps Auditions

With the 2015 Drum Corps International in the history books, drum corps throughout the country are already preparing for a wave of new recruits, which means one thing-auditions. 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 process can sometimes be a daunting task! For those wishing to join a drum corps, preparation is essential. Fortunately, most corps offer materials online detailing all of their technical requirements and explaining their respective audition processes.

Many corps start their audition processes very early, usually beginning around this time of the year. The season takes place during the summer, so the groups begin auditions very early so they can start having weekend camps throughout the year to prepare for the summer season. Oftentimes the first two or three camps are just introductory camps so students can come and experience what the audition camps will be like and if they are really cut out for drum corps. These camps are typically overnight and last two to three days during the weekend. Then, there are a few real audition camps. Staff members watch the recruits all weekend long, not just during their individual auditions. Along with playing and marching ability, the staff also watches things like how well the prospect marchers interact with instructors and other students auditioning. You can be the best player and marcher at the camp, but you will not get a contract if you do not act like you want to be there. After the first one or two audition camps, some recruits will be cut from the auditions, while others will receive a callback and will be asked to return for the next round of auditions. There are usually a series of these and then finally the final members are set and contracts are sent out.

It is important to always stay relaxed when you are auditioning for a drum corps. Be confident and act like you are excited to be there, because it truly is a good opportunity and experience even if you do not get selected to participate with the corps that summer. It is always a great idea to listen to the instructors and take their advice because they are not criticizing you, they are only trying to help you improve. Auditioning is typically very nerve-racking for everyone, but you should always approach that nervousness with a good attitude and be open to stepping outside your shell.

Good luck to everyone who is auditioning these season, I hope you do well!