Drum & Bugle Corps FAQ
Q: What are the age ranges of the corps?
A: The rules allow us to take members who are no older than 21 as of June 1st. There is no age minimum; it largely depends on the individual, and whether the family is comfortable with their student participating. We have had a few members as young as 14. The average age of the corps is around 18.
Q: How long is the season?
A: We typically have our members move in late June, and they remain with the corps through the DCI World Championships in mid-August each year (it’s about an eight week commitment). The calendar is designed to accommodate both high schoolers that have previous commitments to their high school programs, or college students who move to their campus in mid-to-late August. The season includes around 12-15 performance opportunities around the Midwest, including exhibition performances, parades, and of course, DCI competitions.
Q: What does a typical rehearsal day look like?
A: During the summer, we spend almost the entire day out on the field (weather permitting), whether it’s within sub sectionals during the day, or in full ensemble in the evening. Every day will always consist of four meal breaks (we offer a snack before lights out). We also take days off on occasion; at least every 8-10 days we’ll take a laundry day, and sometimes there will be separate free days where we find a group activity for everyone. And sometimes we’re just in travel mode, so we’re spending the day (or a large part of it) on a bus.
Q: Where do the members sleep?
A: While at any audition camp or during the summer, the members almost always stay as a group in a gym (bringing their own sleeping bags/air mattresses). We do take care to separate areas in the gym so minors are not mixed in with adults, and the staff stays with the corps in the building.
Q: Does RCR provide transportation to camps?
A: If someone who wants to audition can’t make the drive to our camp, we do provide transportation to and from Minneapolis/St. Paul International Airport (MSP). The person would just coordinate with our staff as far as flight arrival/departure times so we make sure to have a ride available, and that they are back with enough time to make their flight. We understand if a person arrives late and/or must leave early depending on the flights booked.
Q: If I have dietary restrictions, will those be accommodated?
A: Absolutely! When you register for camps, and again when you sign a contract, we collect this information so we know how to accommodate you.
Q: I’m a woodwind player who just picked up a brass instrument because I want to march in a DCI corps. What chance do I have to make it?
A: Better than you think, especially if you have marching experience, whether it’s in a parade band or a field band. Our staff is very experienced in teaching students on their respective instrument, and would be glad to have the opportunity to train you this summer! We strongly recommend coming to an audition camp to find out. The worst that happens is that you get a lot of experience to prepare for the next season. But you may be surprised at how well you do!
Q: What is the cost to participate?
A: Our dues vary each year; they are largely based on projected costs for that respective season (transportation costs, food costs, etc). We work very hard to keep our dues among the lowest in all of DCI. We’re also proud of the fact that the fee a) includes everything - housing, meals, transportation, uniform, and more; b) our veterans receive a discount; c) any money paid for winter audition camps is applied to that fee; d) it is not all due up front; and e) we have a number of optional scholarship and fundraising ideas that we offer to contracted members to help offset these costs. We work with each individual who asks because we don’t want the cost to prohibit anyone from joining if they want to do it!
Q: Will there be virtual auditions?
A: Yes, RCR will be offering virtual auditions again, though we strongly recommend auditioning in person when possible as it provides a much more accurate assessment - both for the staff evaluating the student, and for the student deciding if this corps is a fit.
If you still have further questions, please feel free to email them to info@rivercityrhythm.org.