About The Audition

Don't be afraid to audition!!!

Every year hundreds of qualified members don't come to the audition because they're nervous about something typically being 'cut.' We don't 'cut' anyone (read on to find out more). We go to great lengths to make your audition experience rewarding, educational and worthwhile. We encourage every person interested in the corps to come to camp! Remember, talent and skills are important, but work ethic, tenacity, and communication skills are often more so. Also, there may be opportunities you haven't considered! If your first choice doesn't work out, perhaps a different instrument or section will need someone.

How Does the Audition Work?

Over the course of the Audition Weekend, we ask all members interested in the Blue Stars to attend a weekend rehearsal.

During the weekend the ensemble will learn a few musical selections, and the color guard will learn a short feature. You'll experience a full weekend of top-notch instruction with some of the finest teachers in the country.

By the end of the weekend you'll have had an opportunity that most never have the courage to pursue; you'll have experienced a full weekend of drum corps. You'll have a know what it means to be part of a great ensemble. You'll eat and sleep with the corps, work hard, and become a better performer. You'll have an idea of what it's like to work with one of the finest drum corps in America.

During the camp there will be a casual audition. We've provided some exercises for you, which you can download from the audition materials page. If you're a brass player, you can also download one of the optional etudes, or you may play a short (1-3 minute) piece of your own if you prefer. There will be no required sight reading.

At the end of the weekend, as well as through the audition you will be given feedback as to your performance. Before you leave you will be given a numerical rating.

1) You are accepted into the Blue Stars. You'll be offered a standard membership agreement that lets you know what the dues payment schedule is.

2) You are a fine performer but you have some things to work on. You will be given direction and asked to attend the next camp. The hope is, that with some rehearsal, you will improve.

3) Your skill level is such that based on the other individuals auditioning, it does not appear that we will be able to offer you a position for the upcoming season. You will be given exercises to work on, and you are welcome to the next camp, but understand that it's unlikely that you will make the corps.

We do not cut anyone. We watch your audition and provide you a bit of feedback, but what happens next is completely up to you. More often than not you will recieve a '1' or a '3' immediately.

Once More, Don't be Afraid to Audition!!!

We regularly hear from people who say "I'm not good enough for drum corps," or "I'm afraid to audition." If you are at the point where you are reading this - you need to come to camp. You have very little to lose and everything to gain.

Everyone auditioning for the Blue Stars will have a great experience. You will meet some great people, you will learn great musical and guard skills, you will know more about the Blue Stars, and you will feel fabulous because you did something in pursuit of your dream. Do not stay home! Find out what this is all about. Come to camp.

To receive information on auditioning, be sure you fill out the form at the bottom of the Membership Information page.