Q: Who is eligible to join RCR Winds?
A: Even though WGI Winds Independent groups are permitted to have members of any age, RCR's primary focus is youth education. Members must be 23 or younger on April 1st, 2026, to be eligible to participate. We do not have an age minimum; however, we expect the average age of RCR members to be around 18-19 years.
Q: What instruments are allowed in a Winds ensemble?
A: Winds groups are open to a large variety - everything from typical corps brass instruments to reeds/woodwinds is allowed to be part of the ensemble, and we will be seeking members for every section!
RCR will supply brass members with 825 Marching horns. Woodwind members will need to provide their instruments.
Q: What if I have no marching experience?
A: No problem at all! No prior training is required—just a positive attitude and a willingness to learn. In fact, over 75% of our ensemble last year were brand new to indoor and had never stepped foot on a floor before. We take pride in developing our members from the ground up and helping them grow in both skill and confidence. What matters most to us is your attitude, adaptability, and commitment to learning.
Q: What is the audition process like?
A: RCR does not hold formal auditions. Instead, staff will observe members during the Experience Clinics to assess musical and visual abilities, as well as qualities like attitude, adaptability, and willingness to learn. Some members may be asked to play their instruments in a small group setting.
We expect members to be comfortable on their instruments and able to learn show music independently, as weekend rehearsals won't cover everything.
Q: What happens at the Experience Clinics?
A: The clinics (Sunday, Oct 26 and Sunday, Nov 2) give both members and staff a chance to experience the program in action. Each day is divided into two main blocks:
Music: Members will go through the warm-up packet and may begin early show material.
Visual: Members will work on fundamental marching and movement techniques.
No prior training is required—just a positive attitude and a readiness to learn.
Q: Will there be virtual auditions?
A: No, RCR will not offer virtual auditions. We strongly encourage attending an in-person Experience Clinic, as it provides a more accurate evaluation—for both staff and members—to determine if RCR is the right fit.
If you're interested but unable to attend either clinic, please reach out to Ensemble Director John Meissner to discuss possible alternatives. We don’t want clinic attendance to be a barrier to joining the program.
Q: Where will you be rehearsing?
A: Most rehearsals for RCR Winds will take place in Faribault, MN.
Q: Why not rehearse in the metro area?
A: We do our best to keep member dues low while providing a high-level experience, and rehearsing in Faribault allows us to share space with our Indoor Drumline. Moving to a location within the metro would likely add hundreds of dollars to member dues. To limit travel, we will have a place for members to stay overnight on Saturday nights if they choose to do so. A staff member will always be on site with the group.
Q: Will this interfere with my school's music program(s)?
A: The great thing about RCR Winds is that we consider ourselves an extracurricular activity, so most rehearsals and performances are limited to the weekends. In the event of any scheduling conflicts, the school's program receives priority over RCR Winds. While we understand that school-related activities are a priority for our student members, all members are expected to be at rehearsals if they do not have an approved absence for a preplanned, school-sanctioned event.
Q: Will transportation be provided to shows throughout the season?
A: Members will be required to provide their own transportation to rehearsals and performances. We will set up an internal communications channel to help contracted members coordinate carpools if they would like. Most 2026 shows will be within the greater Twin Cities area; a full list of shows will be provided closer to December. Transportation WILL be provided for the WGI trip at the end of the season.
Have questions?
Contact Ensemble Director, John Meissner
john@rivercityrhythm.org
Information will be released throughout the summer into early fall for each given season.
Be sure to check back on our website and follow our social media pages so you don’t miss any new announcements.