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: 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 Winter Drumline. Moving to a location within the metro would likely add several hundred 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: What is the audition process like?
A: We don’t have formal auditions, but we will ask members to play their instruments for our staff, generally in a group setting. We expect members to be familiar with their instrument—it’ll be important that they can practice and learn show music on their own time (we can’t do everything on the weekend rehearsal schedule only).
Q: Will there be virtual auditions?
A: Yes, RCR will be offering virtual auditions, though we strongly recommend auditioning in person if possible, as it provides a much more accurate assessment - both for the staff evaluating the student and for the student deciding if the group is a good fit for them.
Q: Do I need to submit a virtual audition if I am attending one of the Experience Days?
A: No. We will give membership feedback during the Experience Days. Virtual auditions are for those who wish to join the ensemble but cannot attend either of the Experience Days.
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.
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