The BMB will have a new procedure for auditioning drum line members beginning with the 2009 season.

In addtion, there is a mandatory drum line course packet containing exercises needed for auditions along with pre-game music and cheers. Click here to see how to get your copy.

We will continue to host a one-day voluntary pre-camp on Saturday August 1, 2009. This pre-camp is not an audition and attendance is not required for audition, however, we strongly encourage all those interested in auditioning to attend the camp. At the pre-camp students will have an opportunity to meet the BMB instructors and other staff members. We will discuss technique, rehearsal procedure, and technical approaches to exercises. Though not mandatory, this session is the most valuable for people to learn how to be an effective BMB drum line auditionee as the audition process will be explained along with how alternates will be utilized.

In the past we have waited to audition students until the first day of band camp. This year we will utilize a two day process to audition prospective members. Audition Day 1 will be on Saturday, August 15, 2009. It is important to note that anyone intending to audition must attend this audition day. The auditions will last throughout the day. Most of the evaluations will take place in the ensemble setting, however, some individual auditions may also be utilized. We will make cuts as necessary and steer people toward the instrument on which they are most likely to receive a spot and then post the "call backs" list. Candidates will be evaluated on technique, level of preparation on the exercises, and ability to mark time confidently and accurately. Toward the end of the day, we will discuss pre-game, cadences, drum cheers, and stand cheers as well as any music that may be available for the first show. For those that pass this first round, we will stress the importance of showing up at the final round having all material thoroughly digested. Memorization will be of the utmost importance.

The final round will be for call backs only. This final round will occur on the first day of band camp. Candidates will be assessed on their level of preparation of all drum line repertoire as discussed during the pre-camp and first round. We will quickly work through all repertoire and the most prepared call backs win. Sight reading will be used to break any ties. By the end of the day we will finalize the drum line members and place alternates in their respective positions.

Registration for the pre-camp and audition days will be on the BMB website. All equipment is provided, except you must bring your own sticks.