Questions & Answers
Question: How do I audition and become a member?
The first step is to read the information on the "Auditions" tab and then complete all 4 steps to sign up for an Audition Camp.
Question: I was not able to download the audition packet. Do I still have to pay the $75.00 fee?
Yes. Everyone will have to pay the fee, however, the only packet that is available at this time is for the Brass auditions. If you are percussion or guard you will receive the material at your Audition Camp location.
Question: What is a typical day like in the summer ?
We have a show in a different city just about every night. Typically, we arrive at the show around 7pm and perform around 9pm. After a snack at the show we will "roll" around midnight for our next destination. We arrive between 2-6am, bed-down for a few hours and get up for breakfast. We rehearse, eat lunch, rehearse, eat dinner, shower, and load for the next show. The next day it starts all over again.
Question: What is the practice schedule like?
During the winter you must attend the required camps in Jan, Feb, March, and April. At move ins you will go through an intensive rehearsal schedule for 3 to 4 weeks. This will entail 10-14 hours per day. While on tour you will rarely rehearse more than 7 hours per day.
Question: Where are your members from?
Our members come from all over the country and all over the world.
Question: What is the average age of the corps?
19
Question: How many members in each section will you march?
We will be marching the full 150 member limit allowed by Drum Corps International. The breakdown between sections will not be decided until all auditions have taken place. At that time we will decide how to use the 150 limit based on the talent of the various sections auditioning.
Question: Can I audition on more than one instrument and do I have to pay an additional audition fee?
Yes, you can audition on multiple instruments within a section. No, you would not need to pay an additional fee.
Question: Why are there more than one locations for auditioning camps....how many do I have to attend?
Audition Camps are located in Wyoming, Nevada, Texas, Florida, and Indiana to make it easier for you to try out. You must attend at least one of these locations.
Question: What do I need to bring to the audition camp?
Water Cooler, minimum 1 Gallon, short, fat, and blue. Audition Fee, Camp Fee, Shuttle Fee if applicable. White Gloves, Good tennis shoes, Sleeping Bag, Pillow, Toiletry items. Music Stand, Instrument or Equipment. Guard: 6-inch flag pole with a silk. Brass: Mouthpieces. Percussion: Sticks/Mallets.
Question: Is there anything I can do to prepare and raise my ability to the level needed to improve my chances of making the corps?
Practice, practice, practice!
Question: What is the minimum age you accept?
Most people who march are 16 or older. We suggest anyone interested under that age come to our audition camps to learn more about what is expected and how we operate. Being a Trooper is all about HONOR, LOYALTY, and DEDICATION!
Question: What is the maximum age you accept?
According to Drum Corps International rules you must be 21 or younger on June 1st in order to be eligible to march.
Question: How much does it cost to march?
$75.00 Audition Fee $50.00 Camp Fee at each location you attend. $40.00 Shuttle Fee at each location you attend and use the shuttle bus. $2700.00 Tuition Fee for the 2014 Season.
Question: What other money will I need?
It is your responsibility to pay for travel expenses to and from camps in Jan, Feb, March, and April. During the summer the corps will provide you about 95% of your meals. The only money you NEED is for meals on your free days, occasional meals en route, replacing toiletry items, and laundry.
Question: Are there ways to reduce fees?
You can seek out sponsorships from friends, family, alumni, local businesses in your area and other resources. We have forms available to members once they are accepted into the corps.
Question: When and where should I arrive for the camps in Cheyenne if I am flying?
All participants flying into Denver International Airport (DIA) for the Cheyenne Camps must arrive at DIA by 1pm on Friday, and depart after 4pm on Sunday.
Question: How will I get from the airport to the camp location?
We will provide shuttle transportation to and from the airport at each location, provided you will be traveling within the posted time parameters, so make sure you indicate your need for an airport shuttle ride on the Camp Registration form. Please Note: Should any details change after you submit this form (attendance plans, travel schedule, etc), you must notify the Troopers Office immediately at 307-472-2141.
Question: How strict are you about attendance over the winter?
It is critical that you participate at all required camps in January, February, March, and April. Unexcused absence can result in being moved to alternate spots or being removed from the roster all together. All conflicts need to be addressed with the Corps Director, Fred Morris or your Caption Head as soon as you are aware of them.
Question: When is the Move In date for 2014 and what is the location?
Move Ins are scheduled for May 20th in Lebanon, Indiana.
Question: Do you provide housing for members over the summer?
We will provide housing for you as on your official move in date—no earlier.
