Auditioning

[JDWEX1117]

I want to go to the Boston Crusaders audition camp because I want the staff's critique and I want to know what I can do to make myself better. I need a learning experience like that. The thing is, I know I can not make the commitment because the move-in date happens way before my school year ends and it just will not happen. Is it wrong to go to the camp just to learn to be a better drummer and talk to the staff even if I know that I can not do it?

[27/soa]

I'm not a drummer, but I can't think of one reason why it wouldn't be a great learning experience for you! Do it!

[Dominath]

Yeah man, you could/should give it a try.

As for the move in date, I'm sure they've had worse happen.

[hrnguy500]

Go for it. You will learn so much and who knows they may ask you to come back. As for the commitment you probably wont have to sign your life away on the first camp. Talk to them about move-in conflicts. I know we had lots of high school kids come in late at BK. It was a little tough for them to catch on though but they made it.

[mad_scotty]

This would be a fantastic question to pose to the staff at Boston. Call the corps office, and tell them exactly what you just posted. Maybe they will tell you to come for the experience, maybe they will recommend another smaller corps with a later move in date or a "B" corps where you can get that type of experience. Maybe they will tell you to come to camps, and if they like you enough hold a spot for you until after school lets out. or maybe they will audition you and let you be an alternate. its rare for corps to make it through an entire season without having a hole pop up somewhere, you know. but at any rate, they know what they are looking for, what accommodations they will make for members and prospects, where their needs are personnel wise, and they can give you all the straight facts while getting to know you a little better in the process. its a win win when you communicate well, so call them up, thats your best play here by far.

[DrillmanSop06]

I went to several camps knowing I was not able to march. I learned so much that would prepare me for when I could do so in the future! If you can afford it, it's a great learning experience! I'd recommend everyone just go for the clinic!

[notelvis]

I agree that the experience of the audition camp could really help propel you to new levels.

Given what you say about your schedule, it sounds like you are still in high school. If so, you might want to seek out an Open Class corps nearer home and spend a season or two there to gain some quality experience. Once you've finished high school (and no longer have the late end of school date) you might could go for the World Class Corps of your choice at that time.

[Piper]

Most Corps understand school commitments. In the USA the school schedules can vary from state to state and even town to town - both HS and college. The best policy is to notify the corps of your academic schedule beforehand and things can usually be worked out. Last year the Crossmen had their brass line set at 64, but only about 42 were able to arrive at one of their last camps because the rest were still in school and reported later. Nothing wrong with that. Let's face it - DCI doesn't want a bunch of funtional idiots marching around out there.

Edited August 29, 2008 by Piper

[JDWEX1117]

Thanks a lot for the advice everybody

[Bob984]

Hi...

The only time you lose at an audition is when you don't go. Period. Every audition, at every level, can be a learning experience. Even if you do not make it, you will have a much clearer idea of what it takes, and what your strengths and weaknesses are.

It sounds as though you are in high school, and that also means that if you don't make it, there will be other chances, and this would be a valuable learning experience. If you do make it, and are open with the corps about your school calendar, sometimes it can be worked out. Some corps actually write letters to school administrators to assist in allowing the student to finish required work early and to be dismissed from school at an early date....I have heard of some getting released 2 weeks early. Also, if the corps sees that you are a fast learner and one who does their homework for each camp, they may accomodate a late camp arrival.

Other options would be to audition for a corps who will definitely accomodate your school-end date. You may also wish to consider an open class corps. Above all.....audition....and march....somewhere........good luck!

GB