What are the requirements for being a member of Spirit of Atlanta?

There are seven basic requirements:

1.     Desire – You must have the desire and courage to audition for the corps.
2.     Time – You need to have the ability to attend winter rehearsals and all summer activities (see the Rehearsal Schedule).  You will need to “move-in” with the corps on the announced date or as soon thereafter as your educational requirements will allow.
3.     Finances – please refer to the 2012 Fees and Dues section.
4.     Attitude – Sometimes drum corps can be very difficult. Your attitude will be the single most important factor in your success as a member of Spirit
5.     Age – You can audition if you are between the ages of 15-21. If you turn 22 on or after June 1, 2012 you are also permitted to perform with the corps.
6.     Health – Daily rehearsals, performances and travel make drum corps even more intense and demanding than many collegiate levels of sports. Your body must be capable of holding up under stressful physical conditions.
7.     Talent – Obviously, you must have the skills to perform the required materials, but a strong work ethic is also very important.

When and where are auditions and rehearsal camps?  

The entire rehearsal schedule is listed in the 2012 Rehearsal Schedule section.

What is the summer rehearsal and tour schedule like?

Members are asked to “move in” with the corps at the start of Spring Training (typically mid-May) and stay with the corps everyday until the end of tour (typically mid-August). We typically spend four weeks learning the show (mid-May to mid-June) then begin an eight-week tour performing and rehearsing all across the country (mid-June to mid-August). Periodic breaks are scheduled for laundry, shopping trips to “re-stock” personal supplies, and occasional “free time” away from rehearsal. Members who still have school commitments at the beginning of Spring Training are required to meet the corps on the weekends until they are available to join the corps full-time. Once a member joins the corps for the summer, he/she must remain with the corps until the end of DCI Championships in early August. This is a significant time commitment, but well worth it!

How much does it cost to participate in Spirit of Atlanta?

Please refer to the 2012 Fees and Dues section for this information.

What is the audition process like?

The audition process at Spirit of Atlanta is probably very similar to that of a high school or college marching band. You will be asked to perform individually for staff members and be evaluated while performing within a larger group. The majority of your time at audition camp will be spent in a large-group setting. The brass and percussion sections will learn a few exercises and musical selections, and the guard will learn a short routine. During your individual audition time (approximately 15 minutes), you should expect to perform portions, or all, of the audition material (see the 2012 Audition Materials section) and answer a few questions about yourself. You will also be asked if there are any calendar or financial conflicts you may have with winter camps and/or the summer season. At the end of the weekend, as well as throughout the audition, you will be given feedback about your performance.

What should I be working on between now and auditions?

Specific information on what is required in your audition can be found in the audition packet for your section (see the 2012 Audition Materials section). Brass and Percussion members will have musical and marching exercises in the audition packet to prepare to the best of your ability. Color Guard members must audition on flag and in movement. It is not required to have rifle or sabre experience in order to audition, however the more experience you have is helpful. NO section in the corps requires previous drum corps experience. Also, please see the 2012 Audition Checklist to ensure you are properly prepared for auditions.

When will I receive my audition packet?

Audition packets are available for purchase and download online (see the 2012 Audition Materials section).

How are housing and meals accommodated at camps?

All members will stay overnight with the corps at the rehearsal sight. Spirit usually rehearses at high schools and members sleep on the floor of the gym or other rehearsal area (i.e., the cafeteria or band room). Members will also use the shower facilities at the school; thus, it is important to bring a sleeping bag, pillow, and shower gear for the weekend. All meals will be provided by the corps and are included in the camp fee. Members will be fed a snack after rehearsal on Friday night, 4 meals on Saturday, and breakfast on Sunday morning.

Don’t be afraid to audition!!!

Every year, hundreds of qualified members don’t come to drum corps auditions because they are worried they aren’t good enough or nervous they will get “cut”.  We go to great lengths to make your audition experience rewarding, educational, and worthwhile. We want you to be a better performer when you leave than when you came.  We encourage every person interested in the corps to come and give it a try!  Remember, talent is important but work ethic, desire, and attitude are VERY important. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain! You will meet great people and get great instruction.

What do I need to submit prior to my audition?

You must do three things before you audition: complete the membership application, pay the registration fee, and download the audition materials (see the 2012 Audition Materials section).

Are there ways to reduce my tuition?

Yes, we understand that drum corps is an expensive activity; therefore, there are opportunities to reduce the cost. Returning members receive a veteran discount and all members can receive a discount for paying tuition in full by the February 12, 2012. In addition, there is a sponsorship program to help you acquire sponsorships from businesses or individuals in your area. Please see the 2012 Financial Policy for more information.

Do you offer scholarships?

There are a limited number of scholarships to help members pay for their tuition. In addition, there is a sponsorship program available to all members that can be applied toward tuition payments. Please see the 2012 Financial Policy for more information.

Which airport is closest to camp?

You should book all flights to/from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL). Your flights should arrive no later than 6 pm on Friday afternoon. Sunday departures should be booked to depart for 6 pm or later. Spirit will provide shuttle service to and from the Atlanta airport on Friday evening and Sunday afternoon. You will be required to submit your travel arrangements to the corps office no later than the Tuesday proceeding each rehearsal weekend. Specific shuttle information will be sent to those who submit travel information.

If I have auditioned for Spirit of Atlanta in the past do I need to complete the application again?

Yes, you must complete a new member application for each year you wish to participate. 

If I owe money to another corps, can I still become a member of Spirit of Atlanta?

No, not until your outstanding debt to another corps has been fulfilled.

Can I apply and pay my fees online?

Yes, there is an online application and an online payment center (Available September 19th).