2017 BD Brass Audition

BRASS

THE BLUE DEVILS Brought to you by

2017 AUDITION PACKET A CORPS

CONGRATULATIONS If you’re reading this, then you’ve made the big decision to audition for the 2017 Blue Devils Brass section. For that, we say THANK YOU and congratulations! We have put together this audition packet to try and make the audition process as simple and straight forward as possible. As long as you go through the entire packet and let the information digest a bit, you should have a very clear idea of what you need to do to prepare for your Blue Devils Brass audition. As I’ll say a few times in this packet, we want you to be as prepared and relaxed as possible during your audition. That way, we are getting the REAL YOU!

CONTENTS 2 Your Audition 3 List of Audition Excerpts 4 Visual Guidelines 5 Media Auditions 7 Trumpet Audition Exercises 12 Mellophone Audition Exercises 16 Euphonium Audition Exercises 21 Tuba Audition Exercises 26 FAQs 30 Additional Testimonials 33 Blue Devils Staff

John M. Meehan Brass Caption Head The Blue Devils

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2017 BLUE DEVILS BRASS AUDITION PACKET

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YOUR AUDITION For your audition, you will simply prepare and play the provided audition exercises and excerpts. You will NOT need to select your own solo material. Everything is selected for you. On the day of your audition, make sure you don’t play too much before coming into the actual audition room. Many people over warm-up and come in sounding (and feeling) a bit tired. If you’re not prepared the day of the audition, you won’t be ready with 15 extra minutes of practice time in the warm-up room. All you should do before your audition is get your chops ready to play. Remember, you will have time to play a few notes when you get into the audition room, then you will play the audition exercises and selected excerpts. We also suggest you bring a bottle of water to the audition room with you. Many people forget this then get a little “dry” while in their audition. Remember, set yourself up for ultimate success! General note: The tempos stated on each of the audition exercises and selected excerpts are just a guide, but PLEASE do not go too fast. If you come in and perform the exercises at the tempos listed on the page, you’ll be fine. You will NOT impress us by going faster, trust me. Too many people have come in playing an exercise at a tempo of 160 bpm and just sound, well, not good. Don’t do this. Even if you CAN play the exercises faster, that’s not what we are interested in. We’re interested in your tone and true abilities. As far as volume goes, it’s important that you don’t underplay during your audition. Play like you would in your practice room when no one is listening. Also, don’t face directly at the staff. Face slightly off center so the staff can hear your true sound, but also have a good view of your embouchure and finger dexterity. For the selected excerpts, we suggest you “familiarize” yourself with these by searching YouTube and listening to several recordings. This will help you with style interpretation and tempo. After your playing audition, we will also have you do the short “marching and playing” exercise while doing a simple box drill.

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The first time I auditioned for The Blue Devils in 2007 I was unprepared and extremely nervous, but things changed when I came back to audition in 2008. This time I was focused and wouldn’t settle to hear anything else other than the words, ‘Welcome to the 2008 horn line.’ The audition process for The Blue Devils was amazing, especially with the new audition packet that lets you know exactly what’s going to happen. The staff wants you to make it, they want you to have a good experience. They provide you with all of the correct information to become a member, but it’s up to you to take it to the next level. It’s always good to have confidence and to stand out. Let them see how bad you want it and show them that this is where you belong. Being a member of The Blue Devils has definitely changed my life for the better. Everything was worth it in the end, and I would do it again in a heartbeat. Just believe in yourself and KNOW that you can do it. — Anthony When I auditioned for The Blue Devils I couldn’t have been more nervous. Of course I was worried that I might not play well, but mainly I just didn’t know what to expect. But as soon as I began my music audition, my nerves were immediately calmed. I could tell that John Meehan wanted me to play as well as I possibly could. Once I had calmed down a bit, I was able to play confidently and remember all of the work I had done in the practice room. This is all an auditionee can ask for, and it helped me secure my spot in the 2008 horn line. If you have any doubts about your ability to the corps, at least come out to audition. It never hurts to try, and you may end up having the best summer of your life, just like I did. — Trey


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LIST OF AUDITION EXCERPTS TRUMPET AUDITION All of the 2017 audition exercises Arutunian Trumpet Concerto, indicated sections only Charlier Etude #2, indicated sections only If you would like to be considered for a lead Trumpet spot, please also play the provided “Gordon Goodwin” Lead Excerpt.

MELLOPHONE AUDITION All of the 2017 audition exercises Mozart Horn Concerto #3, 3rd Movement, indicated sections only Till Eulenspiegel, indicated sections only

EUPHONIUM AUDITION All of the 2017 audition exercises Toccata Marziale, indicated sections only Rochut Melodius Etudes, Book 1, #9, indicated sections only Commando March (this excerpt is OPTIONAL), indicated sections only

TUBA AUDITION

In my experience, auditioning for The Blue Devils is a very straightforward process handled very professionally by both the visual and musical staffs. Both parts of the audition are structured so that each potential member can give the best possible showing of themselves. Naturally, being evaluated by the staff can be seen as stressful, but in BD’s audition environment, all that you are asked to do is the best you know how. You don’t have to worry (yet) about jumping in and immediately conforming to new techniques or methods of moving or playing — all that is required is that you show off your skills and your level of preparation, and if the staff asks you to try something differently, that you do your best to make the change. If you’ve put the time in to solidify your grasp on your marching and musicianship, if you’ve worked with people who can help identify areas that you can improve on and you’ve made corrections — basically if you’ve done your homework and came prepared — BD’s audition process gives you a great opportunity to show off what you know how to do. There’s no reason to get worked up about auditioning for The Blue Devils. Just put the time in to feel confident in yourself; if you’re prepared, you will have a good experience. Above all, don’t cut yourself, give yourself the chance to succeed by showing up. — Matt

All of the 2017 audition exercises Die Meistersinger, indicated sections only Blazhevich #21, indicated sections only

THERE WILL BE NO SIGHT-READING. GOOD LUCK!

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A BD audition is more of a rehearsal than an actual audition. The staff WANTS you to make it and will be absolutely helpful all weekend (at least that’s how I felt). When I auditioned, the only thing I expected were some encouraging words and a “hope to see you next fall.” My point is... you’ll never know unless you try. — Shane


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VISUAL GUIDELINES The key elements we look for are timing, attitude and fitness. We can teach technique, but we cannot teach timing (inner pulse and foot timing). One of the most important fundamentals to success is to be physically fit. You should be able to comfortably run for a mile. Being fit is essential to be able to march AND play in The Blue Devils. You need to be able to march at a variety of tempos, from 60 up to 200 bpm. You should be able to maintain proper body control and technique at all tempos. It is NOT essential you know The Blue Devil technique to audition. You should use whatever technique you feel most comfortable with. If you know The Blue Devil technique, it is to your advantage, but is not required. Having a positive attitude is vital. You should be a good student with the ability to receive, react and respond to information. Your ability to learn carries equal weight to your current skill level. We look for an understanding of body alignment. You should know the key elements to a good body line. It’s to your advantage if you have tried jazz running. We will teach specifics, but it’s good to at least have tried it.

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT ON THE DAY OF TRY-OUTS • Introductions and a good long stretch-out with focus on body awareness and alignment. • Go for a run (about a mile). It is important you have spent some time running beforehand so that you can still perform a day of try-outs following this. • A series of basic exercises consisting of front and back strides, move 12-halt 4, as well as upper body slides. • Introduction of jazz runs. • Variety of step size and tempo exercises. • There may be an introductory body movement class. You will be better prepared if you can tondu, and plie, as well as jazz run and jazz walk.

PHYSICAL FITNESS Drum corps is pretty much a professional sport. The physical exertion and overall demands put on the performers these days in drum corps are equal to professional athletes. So like a professional athlete, a drum corps member needs to stay in great physical shape in AND OUT of the season. Knowing this, you should begin to prepare physically for your Blue Devil audition around the same time you begin musically. The better physical shape you are in for your audition, the more successful your prospective summer will be.

It is important you wear athletic fitness clothes and cross-training athletic shoes for all Blue Devil auditions!

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MEDIA AUDITIONS When I first auditioned at The Blue Devils, I was nervous beyond reason. This showed through to the judges and they could tell I was weak. The comment I received from them was quite simple, “you could be good if only you had practiced.” At first I took this as an insult, a poor choice on my behalf. Then, as the year passed and auditions re-approached, I realized the true meaning of what I had been told. I practiced not only my Baritone, but my professionalism and confidence in performance as well. At the 2008 auditions, I stood tall and played the same exact piece as the year before. Thanks to the risks I took, and the confidence at which I took them, I was welcomed to the family and spent the summer traveling with friends. — Sean When I went to Concord, CA to audition for The Blue Devils in November of 2007, I had to fly in from Florida. Many of my friends and fellow band members back at my high school couldn’t believe that I thought I could make The Blue Devils. But I never doubted myself, in fact I was certain that I was right for The Blue Devils and that I had the skills to make it. When I arrived that Saturday morning for auditions, I found a line had already been formed in front of the brass audition door. After waiting at the end for a few minutes, I noticed a list on the door, so I walked up and found that no one had signed up for slots #1 through #10 (I guess they all wanted someone else to go first!) Well, I just put my name down on the #1 slot and went in! There, staring at me, were two legends in brass, John Meehan and Wayne Downey. Talk about being first in the barrel! Interestingly, I wasn’t nervous and felt like this is where I was meant to be. I played, then we talked for a while and I just knew that I was “in” this wonderful family. My advice: listen to your heart, trust in yourself, play like (and because) you love it, and that will be what comes through your instrument. — Colin

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This method of auditioning is ONLY to be used if an individual cannot attend one of our live auditions. Media auditions will ONLY be accepted from October 1 through December 1, 2016. Once we have received and viewed your musical and visual media auditions, we will inform you of your status. It will either be a) you are invited to the first full corps camp in January to continue and complete your audition (meaning we think you have the talent and ability to make the corps, but need to see you live and in a full ensemble setting before making a final decision), or b) unfortunately we cannot offer you a spot at this time. No outright acceptance will be made via media auditions.

MUSICAL MEDIA AUDITION Create an unlisted (not public or private) YouTube video (or multiple videos) for us to review. This video (or videos) should include all of the audition exercises and selected excerpts listed in this audition packet. Once you have your musical media audition video prepared and uploaded, please send an e-mail to John Meehan ([email protected]) with the following information: • Link to your music audition video(s) • Your full name • Birthdate and current age • Mailing address • Phone number • Active e-mail address • Section for which you are auditioning for • Previous drum corps and/or marching band experience continued on the next page...


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MEDIA AUDITIONS VISUAL MEDIA AUDITION Create an unlisted (not public or private) YouTube video (or multiple videos) for us to review. This video (or videos) should include all of the required material listed below. Please feel free to contact Todd Ryan with any visual questiotns. Once you have your visual media audition video prepared and uploaded, please send an e-mail to Todd Ryan ([email protected]) and John Meehan ([email protected]) with the following information: • Link to your visual audition video(s) • Your full name • Birthdate and current age • Mailing address

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For your visual media audition, please demonstrate the following: •T empo changes: Set a metronome to 180 BPM, then march forward at 8 to 5, switching foot speed every 8 counts (8 @ 180 BPM, 8 @ 90 BPM, and so on for 4 reps). Do this a second time, moving backwards. •S tep size changes: Set a metronome to 180 BPM, then march forward 12 steps at 12 to 5, then 6 steps at 6 to 5. Do this 4 times, the 1st and 3rd time at 180 BPM, the 2nd and 4th time at 90 BPM. •D irection Changes: Do 4 reps of a “zig zag drill” (forward 8, left slide 8, forward 8, right slide 8). First rep - 90 BPM, all front slides; Second rep - 180 BPM, all front slides; Third rep - 90 BPM, all backslides; Fourth rep - 180 BPM all backslides.

• Active e-mail address

•E ffort changes: Moving only at 180 BPM, move forward 8 to 5 for 8 counts, then jazz run 4 to 5 for 8 counts, then 8 to 5 for 8 counts, then jazz run 4 to 5 for 8 counts.

• Section for which you are auditioning for

• Backward motion: Run backwards for 20 yards.

• Phone number

• Previous drum corps and/or marching band experience

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If you have ANY questions about the music or visual aspects of a media audition, please read the FAQ section of this packet, or contact John Meehan ([email protected]).


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TRUMPET The Blue Devil’s audition process is no different than any other world class audition you may experience. The staff is very professional and the auditions are run in a comfortable, organized manner. The key to having a successful audition at The Blue Devils is to understand that the staff is not looking for who may or may not mess up. They want you to do well and they want you to succeed. Be smart in your musical preparation; do not choose material that is above your current musicianship level, and do not try and change your marching technique prior to the audition. Remember, you need to feel comfortable, so do what feels comfortable for you. Two things: Visual — Keep your feet in time, and stay tall! Music — Play with a consistent, centered tone. Do not try and impress through technique only, YOU HAVE to display good control of tone and pitch. (A good, centered tone matters in technical passages as well). Do not throw this opportunity away if you feel you’re not good enough. Half the battle is networking and getting your face in front of the staff so they know who you are in case you have to audition again. Plus, you will never know unless you try. It’s the truth! Remember, the staff is excited for everyone who comes to audition, so relax and do not be afraid to introduce yourself to others and have fun! — Bill

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2017 Trumpet Audition Exercises Arutunian Trumpet Concerto, indicated sections only Charlier Etude #2, indicated sections only “Gordon Goodwin” Lead Excerpt, if you would like to be considered for a lead Trumpet spot


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Excerpts used for educational purposes only


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MELLOPHONE I marched The Blue Devils from 2004 through 2007. The day of my audition was incredibly nerve racking, but all of that went away when I stepped into the warm-up room. Just during the warm-up time for my audition, I had already met five different people that were from all over the country. When it was my turn to audition, I played in front of John Meehan and Wayne Downey. It was a very stress free environment. I just went in there and played my music excerpt and a range exercises, that was pretty much it. Next, Jaime Holly checked out how I moved by having me do some basic marching exercises and some jazz running. Even during the audition he was giving me some pointers and tips on how to fix things. I have learned so much about music, marching and very productive working habits that I still use to this day. I also traveled all over the globe and have made many life long friends through this organization. I can easily say marching The Blue Devils was the best time of my life. — Robert

2017 Mellophone Audition Exercises Mozart Horn Concerto #3, 3rd Movement, indicated sections only Till Eulenspiegel, indicated sections only

I was a member from 2004-2007 and I am so glad I came back year after year. To date, my fondest memories in life come from those years. I’m not going to lie, nothing about The Blue Devils is a “walk-in-thepark.” I wasn’t an “out-of-stater,” but it sure was a long drive from SoCal to Concord. Not that driving would be any cheaper than flying considering the ridiculous gas prices. But let me tell you... all of the hardships I endured were all worth it, and not just in the end. The experiences, morals, ethics and friends you’ll gain with The Blue Devils are forever. — Shane

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EUPHONIUM My name is Tim and I have a story that can be a true testimonial for people out there thinking they can’t make The Blue Devils. I auditioned in April of the 2007 season to fill a spot in the Euphonium line. I was 21 years old with no previous drum corps experience at all. Things really didn’t look in my favor as there was another guy auditioning for the spot that had marched with a different top 3 drum corps the year before. The biggest thing I can tell anyone about auditioning is don’t doubt your abilities and walk into the audition with total confidence. No matter how many butterflies you may have in your stomach, you should look like its no big deal at all. Show the staff that is auditioning you that you deserve to be in the hornline. Needless to say, I made it! My one and only summer of drum corps with The Blue Devils was completely magical. It was totally the best time I have ever had in my life and I wish I had more years to march. Being a part of a drum corps with such a rich background of history on its 50th year anniversary was priceless. It was truly a privilege to be around everyone affiliated with The Blue Devils. Everyone from the cook staff, to the instructional staff to the 135 marching members. At the end of each day, knowing that everyone together put all their heart and soul into working together for a common goal was amazing. Anytime I would want to give up and not push anymore, I would look around and see everyone that was depending on me to keep pushing beyond what I thought I could. The Blue Devils truly are a world class organization. The last piece of advice I could give is… to be in The Blue Devils doing your best isn’t good enough, you have to do whatever it takes. — Tim 6/13/2016

2017 Euphonium Audition Exercises Toccata Marziale, indicated sections only Rochut Melodius Etudes, Book 1, #9, indicated sections only Commando March (OPTIONAL), indicated sections only


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TUBA I have nothing but good things to say in regards to my audition and camp experiences with The Blue Devils. I auditioned in Indianapolis at the BOA Grand Nationals competition and made it on the spot, so I didn’t have to attend camps until January. It proves that the staff knows exactly who is capable of making the corps without putting its members through unnecessary hassle (i.e. having to fly to auditions even though they saw me in Indy). Also, they will not waste your time and money, so if you are called back, you have a great shot at making it — especially if they see improvement from the last time they saw you. I had to miss two camps due to school related functions, but it is good to know your spring schedule ASAP so that the staff can know that upfront. Plan on missing all of your Friday classes on camp weekends because it takes all day to fly out there. The BART train is really easy and safe to use — people are friendly and will help you out, make sure to bring single bills to pay for shuttles to the station. Basically, if you are talented and committed, you have a great shot at making The Blue Devils.

2017 Tuba Audition Exercises Die Meistersinger indicated sections only Blazhevich #21 indicated sections only

I was a rook-out in BD this year (2007) and had the best summer of my life, even if we hadn’t won. Not a day went by that I didn’t have fun or wasn’t laughing about something. They have the best instruction in the activity and treat everyone very well. I’ve noticed that at BD, more than anywhere else, they bridge the gap between rookies and vets and treat everyone the same. I can carry on for hours about the great experiences I’ve had as a Blue Devil. I guarantee that you will not regret your decision to march BD. Go for it! — Kayla

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Q: Why should I try out? I KNOW I’ll never make it.

Now, to instruments…

A: I hear this question/comment more than you could ever imagine. As a matter of fact, prior to the 2003 season, I was doing a clinic for a band in Tennessee and suggested to one of the Trumpet players he consider auditioning for The Blue Devils. He immediately blushed and said “No way! I would never make it.” My reaction? “HELLO! I’m on the BD brass staff and just told you to audition!” This person went on to audition and subsequently make the brass section (just like I thought he would). So, my advice to anyone who would like to one day be a member of The Concord Blue Devils is to GO FOR IT! Like with many things in life, you will never know if you don’t try, and there’s nothing wrong with taking a chance once in a while.

IMPORTANT! If you are attending ANY NON-CALIFORNIA audition, you will need to bring your own instrument.

Q: What should I expect at my playing audition with The Blue Devils? A: In a nutshell, your playing audition will last around 4 to 8 minutes and be in a room with just you and one or two members of The Blue Devil brass staff. We will ask you a few simple questions such as your age and marching experience to “break the ice” and get things rolling. DON’T BE NERVOUS! Although you will have had time to warm-up on your own before the audition, we will give you another minute to re-warm and prepare for your audition. From there we will ask to hear all of the 2017 Audition Exercises and Selected Excerpts, which were designed and selected to give us a good idea of your tone, flexibility and articulation style. Finally, we will ask you a few more questions and that’s it, painless! Q: What should I bring? A: First of all, BRING YOUR MUSIC! It sounds ridiculous, but you’d be surprised with some of the things that have happened! There is no need to bring a music stand, we will provide one for you. I highly suggest that you bring your own mouthpiece. You will be able to borrow one of ours if needed, but my experience has been that it’s much more comfortable to audition on your own.

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If you ARE coming to a California audition… Trumpet players – I suggest you bring your own horn and mouthpiece. You will of course be able to borrow one of ours if needed, but like mouthpieces, we’ve found it’s more comfortable to audition on your own instrument. French Horn/Mellophone players – If you plan on playing a French Horn during your audition, you NEED to bring your own horn. Because we perform on Mellophones during the season, we will also ask you to play a few notes on one of our Mellophones as we will need to check your tone and such on that instrument. IMPORTANT! We use Mellophone mouthpieces with our Mellophones and DO NOT allow French Horn mouthpieces with an adapter. If you play Mellophone, it’s up to you whether or not you bring your own horn. We will of course have enough instruments available for you to borrow. Baritone/Euphonium/Tuba/Trombone players – If you plan on playing a Trombone during your audition, you NEED to bring your own horn. Because we perform on Euphoniums during the season, please be prepared to also play a few notes on one of our instruments as we will need to check your finger control and dexterity. If you play Baritone, Euphonium or Tuba, it’s up to you whether or not you bring your own horn. We will of course have enough instruments available for you to borrow. I suggest you use ours (with YOUR mouthpiece) as these instruments are difficult to travel with. Please remember we only have Euphoniums (no Baritones) and they take large shank mouthpieces. Q: Do you accept Trombone players? A: We have many Trombone players every year audition for and make the Blue Devil brass section. While we don’t march Trombones, these members move to our Euphonium section. You are fully allowed to audition on your Trombone for The Blue Devils, but might be asked to play a few scales on a valved instrument to demonstrate your finger dexterity. 2017 BLUE DEVILS BRASS AUDITION PACKET

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FAQs

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Q: What kinds of things are you looking for with my audition?

Q: Can I audition even though I may audition for another corps?

A: We look for all of the basic things….. tone quality, flexibility, finger dexterity and range, but also your ability to control articulation, intervallic control, overall awareness of your horn and MANY other things. Outside of your musical talents, we also look at your personality, work ethic and ability to respond to corrective criticism (like you would have to during the season) as these are just as important when push comes to shove in the heat of the battle!

A: YES! We understand you need to keep your options open. Feel free to audition for as many corps as you please. Just remember, if we or any of the other corps offer you a spot (or a call back opportunity), you WILL need to make a decision.

Q: What are your age requirements?

Q: Are there any scholarships or sponsorships I can get to help with my tour fees? A: Once you are accepted into The Blue Devils, you will receive a handbook with information regarding these opportunities.

A: The average age for The Blue Devil ‘A’ Corps is 19 and ages range from 15 to 22. While we have no age limit, when you are under 17, age is a consideration. If you have the talent to make the corps, no matter what the age, we will of course consider accepting you. If you happen to be under 17, we would need to talk with your parents just to make sure they understand the activity and what the commitment would be for joining The Blue Devils. We have had members as young as 15.

A: We prefer you audition on one instrument only. If you are a Trumpet player but wouldn’t mind playing Mellophone if it were to help you get a spot, please put that on your audition form the day of the audition. You could also mention this during your music audition. Audition on the instrument you are most comfortable with.

Q: Do you have any ‘inside information’ to help me prepare for my audition?

Q: Will I find out my status by the end of the audition weekend?

A: The most important piece of information I can give ANYONE auditioning for The Blue Devils is to come prepared! Take the audition as seriously as you would a final exam (or at least the way you SHOULD prepare for a final), otherwise we’ll never know your true talent. Remember, you are auditioning for one of the best brass sections in the marching activity, and although you don’t have to be the best player in the world to be a part of our organization, you DO need to have pride and dedication to your instrument. This is a huge event in most people’s lives, take full advantage of it!

A: One of three things will happen at the end of the audition day/weekend. #1) We will congratulate you and accept you into the 2017 Concord Blue Devil brass section. #2) We will inform you that you have passed the first step and will be invited to our first full corps camp in January, 2017. It will be at this camp that we begin learning the 2017 technique program and show music with the entire brass section. We will also make ALL final decisions on your acceptance at this camp. In other words, you will know if you are accepted or not by the end of the January camp. #3) We will inform you that unfortunately we cannot offer you a spot in the 2017 Blue Devil brass section. This is always the most difficult thing for us to do as we wish we could accept everyone that auditions. For most, there will be more audition years left and this one can be looked at as a learning experience to better prepare for the 2018 auditions.

Q: Can I audition even if I have no intention of marching? A: YES! Many people each year audition just for the experience. The more you do one on one auditions, the more comfortable you will get.

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Q: Is there any way I can audition on more than one instrument? Like Trumpet AND Mellophone?


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FAQs

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Q: How long would I have to live in California? A: This answer varies person to person. We have some members that move to Northern California in January so they can not only attend all rehearsals, but also work and go to school for the semester, kind of a change of pace. Beyond that, we have some members that commute to camps January through May (either by car or plane) and move to Northern California once school is out for the year (usually sometime during the month of May). For more information, continue reading in the following question. Q: Do I have to move to the Concord area if accepted? A: Most people think that in order to be a member of The Concord Blue Devils brass section you HAVE to move to Concord in January and put all facets of your life on hold. This is NOT true! Our attendance policy has changed over the past several years and is now VERY consistent with the other top drum corps in the country. Here are the 2 scenarios that I see the majority of our members committing to each year. Scenario #1 – Continue going to school and work like normal and travel to Blue Devil camps. Once accepted into the 2017 Blue Devil brass section, you only have to attend monthly camps during January, February, March and April. During that time (4 months), you would spend a total of 12 days in Concord for mandatory rehearsals (school conflicts can be worked out as excused absences). Once May rolls around, your attendance will be determined by your school schedule. Once you are out of school for the summer, you will be required to attend all rehearsals beginning in May, so it is highly suggested that you move to the Concord area then. If you ARE still in school in May, we will create an individually based attendance policy based on your last day of school. Once school is out, you will need to move to Concord immediately as we begin “all-day every-day” rehearsals in mid-May. We COMPLETELY understand that some schools end after mid-May, so no worries. This is why I say we will create an individually based attendance policy JUST for you. 6/13/2016

Scenario #2 – Move to Concord, get a local job and attend classes at a local college. Some members CHOOSE to take a semester off of school and live in California for 6 months. Most (if not all) of these members move into an apartment with other BD members in similar situations to save on the costs of living. Q: Since I don’t live in California, does that mean I need to take a semester off of school? A: No, refer to the Q&A above with scenarios 1 & 2. You CAN take a semester off of school, but that would be YOUR choice. We try to make being a part of The Blue Devils as attainable as possible, for everyone. Q: How many camps do I have to attend? A: We have rehearsal camps once a month January through April. We also have weekend rehearsals in May and all day rehearsals beginning mid-May. All in all, that is 6 weekend rehearsals before the all day rehearsals begin. Out of those 6, we expect as much participation as possible. How much exactly is determined once you make the corps, this is more of a personalized schedule. Mandatory school conflicts are always excused. We require once you are out of school for the year, that you are at ALL rehearsals after that. Q: Where do I stay for camps and all day rehearsals? A: You are responsible for your own housing at camps and all days. Many new members stay at a local hotel for the first camp (this hotel offers a special BD rate), then figure out ways to save money with other members for the following camps. For all days, members usually share an apartment for the 5+ weeks. There are also local members that house “out of town” members as well as alumni and booster club members that open their homes. The Blue Devils also have a housing coordinator that helps people once they have been accepted into the corps.


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FAQs

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Q: I am going to do an early May tour with my College, what is your policy in that regard?

Q: Will there be another audition at the Bands Of America Grand National Finals?

A: If you make the brass section, we will deal with this as best as possible as long as it does not conflict with too much rehearsal. We have had members in the past who have participated in both May school tours as well as The Blue Devils.

A: No. We will NOT be holding an audition at BOA this year.

Q: If I can’t make it to one of the live auditions, what do I do? A: Use the “Media Audition” option. Q: I’m from Germany and would like to do the audition by DVD or other media. Is this OK? A: YES! We realize how expensive it can be to audition for an American drum corps when you are from another country. Sending in a media audition is fully acceptable. Q: I am from a foreign country, can I get a letter from The Blue Devils to help secure a visa? A: Yes. Upon acceptance into The Blue Devils, we could provide you with a letter of participation to help secure your travel visa. Q: I’m not sure if I’m going to be able to afford it, should I audition? A: YES! Audition even if you don’t plan on marching until 2018. The experience will only help and if you DO make it, who knows, you might just figure out how to afford it. I suggest you worry about these issues AFTER you’ve made the corps, not before. Q: How much would it cost if I made The Blue Devils? A: Please check out this link for that information - http:// www.bluedevils.org/join/#fees Q: I have heard you need previous drum corps experience to be accepted, true? A: NO! We have members each year in ALL sections with no previous drum corps experience. Does it help? Yes. Is it required? No. 6/13/2016

Q: What music is BD going to play in 2017? A: This decision is usually made near the end of November, around Thanksgiving. Stay tuned to the BD website for further details. Q: If someone doesn’t make the ‘A’ Corps, could they march the ‘B’ Corps? A: Yes, but most ‘B’ Corps members are from the California area. Unlike the ‘A’ Corps, the ‘B’ Corps is (almost) solely made up of California members who can commute to rehearsals via car or train. The ‘B’ Corps rehearses most weekends January through May, then begin more daily rehearsals in June (once high schools have ended for the year). If you don’t make the ‘A’ Corps and are interested in the ‘B’ Corps, let us know at the end of the audition process. Q: What College would be easiest to attend if I were to be accepted into The Blue Devils? A: Diablo Valley College, Los Medanos College, University Of California Berkeley, Hayward State University, San Francisco State University and San Joe State University. Q: Do you have a specific mouthpiece I have to play on? A: For your audition, NO. If you are accepted into the brass section, you WILL be required to play on our specially designed System Blue mouthpieces for the 2017 season. Every section in 2017 will be on a uniformed mouthpiece (specifically picked by the staff to best fit the tone and range of each instrument/section). Q: Is there any way I can try out for both Trumpet and color guard? Would I have to attend two camps? A: Yes, you can audition for both the brass section AND the color guard, but you would have to attend both auditions. Q: Is there a hair length standard for male members? A: No. 2017 BLUE DEVILS BRASS AUDITION PACKET

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TESTIMONIALS Throughout this packet and on the following pages are real-life testimonials on auditioning and being a member of the Blue Devils from current and previous members. While we know there is nothing like the actual experience, we also find that getting personal perspective from someone who has gone through it before can help settle nerves, give insight and better prepare you for the actual event.

“I first auditioned for the corps in 2006 by sending in a video tape because I live in Arizona and I didn’t have the money to fly out at first. I was very nervous and had gotten help from all of my old instructors on both playing and marching but still felt none of my skills were up to Blue Devil standards. I still remember when John Meehan called me to tell me that they were interested and that I should plan on coming out in December so they could get a better idea. In fact, when John called me asking me to come out I was driving to an open house for the corps that I had marched with in previous years. I remember sitting in the audience at the open house as the corps announced their show and hoping to death that it would be a show I got to watch and not march in. The audition process, as scary as you can make it seem, is really a very positive atmosphere where the staff and all of the current members just want to see you do your best and be accepted into what will hopefully become one of the defining experiences of your life. — Ben

6/13/2016

In November of 2006 when auditioning again after not succeeding in 2005, I found it much easier. It was a road trip with friends to get to auditions, but 575 miles later we showed up at the hotel about 2 min.’s drive from the audition site. As the night came to an end, this would be the hardest time I would have falling asleep. The first audition day rolls around... the best words of advice that helped me are “perform what you practiced.” We do our stretches, meet the horn captain and some staff (Wayne Downey, John Meehan and other marching instructors). For the remainder of the morning (until lunch), we did zig zags, up in four down in four, side back side front and jazz running. The day went on and I never got to the musical portion of my audition, I guess that will happen Sunday. We showed up on Sunday, did some more marching and I was one of 18 (I think) to still audition for a spot musically. I went in, warmed up and finally got to audition. I played my piece, played their music, did okay, but when others asked, I said I never

played better (not true). So it’s now past lunchtime and they are pulling people out to look at them again, some of which look really good, but I am never called. Pretty much after I wasn’t called when the staff went to talk to decide who made the cut, I was about to walk out the door to go home. John Meehan comes back in and explains what’s about to happen… if you make it, if they want to call you back for a second audition in January or if you are invited back to audition again next fall. He goes down the list of accepted and I’m called right after my good friend that is here with me. We go outside, so I have no idea what happens inside after that. The next nine months would turn out to be the time of my life. I was that kid who had two left feet in high school… I was that kid who sounded like a fog horn on clear day… And now, I’m that kid but 5 years later with a world championship in my list of accomplishments, but best of all, I’m a proud member of The Blue Devils. When you walk on the field, you know what it’s about. — Steven


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Succeeding as a member in The Blue Devils during spring training requires careful planning and a strong sense of commitment. Most members have busy lives outside of drum corps, involving work, school and relationships. All of these can lead to conflicts with camps. As a member from out of state, it’s important to note the camp dates ahead of time and immediately start making travel arrangements and taking care of conflicts. It’s crucial that every member gets repetitions on new skills and information from the staff as early as possible. That can only happen if everyone makes an effort to make getting to camps a priority. Getting into the Oakland airport and up to Concord is a simple process, especially if you talk through it with a veteran member ahead of time. There are three or four hotels very near to the rehearsal sites and a few generous boosters who are willing to house members on the camp weekends. As long as you’re willing to meet new people and maybe spend a few dollars, sleeping arrangements aren’t hard to handle either. Apartments for all-days are similarly not too difficult to arrange. The one thing that isn’t easy is making the commitment to the corps and living up to that commitment by planning ahead, making arrangements in advance so that you can get to where you need to be when you need to be there, and taking care of the rest of your life so that you can live up to the financial obligation and time commitment to The Blue Devils. Once you’re on tour is usually the easy part; before you leave for the summer, it’s easy to get distracted and start falling behind. Plan ahead, work out conflicts, make drum corps a real priority and you’ll be able to enjoy the experience of camps and the month of all-days more, but beyond that, you’ll perform better. — Matt

6/13/2016

As a Blue Devil alum, I can look back on the two years I marched and think to myself how much better I became as a person. I can also look back and think about the first time I saw The Blue Devils and how I thought that they were untouchable. That is what most high school students think, even college students, so that mindset usually keeps you from trying out (auditioning). I actually thought to myself afterwards that I wanted to be part of something that would always stay with me for the rest of my life, and I knew I wanted to wear “THE BLUE”. I did my research and read a lot about how to audition and prepare myself. The bad part about it was that it only intimidated me some more. So I just said, “What the heck, I’ve got nothing to lose” and just gave it my best shot. I sent in my media audition and waited for a response, which was an invite to complete my audition at the first January camp! I’m from Miami and being a member from the east coast is tough but you can always find help and sponsorships are available if you really look for them. The best part about being from the east coast was taking the flight out to the west coast for camps every month, it was like a vacation! On top of that, the amount of people you meet that aren’t from California is just amazing. If you think you can’t make it, you’re just setting yourself up wrong. Someone once told me you never know until you try, and how true that is.— Pedro

I honestly enjoyed my experience as a Blue Devil. I have marched other corps such as Crossmen and the Boston Crusaders, and this corps hands down was my favorite. The first week I got there it was very exciting, with everybody all happy to see each other and glad to be apart of an organization with such great caliber. The second week comes and you realize how much you have to go to get that “championship status.” To be honest, it really was difficult because I was part of “The Line” (Tuba section), which historically is a rock solid group within the corps. I remember after the San Antonio show when we got back to the housing site, the cameraman for The Blue Devils DVDs’ put the camera in front of my face and asked me what I thought about winning the regional. I let him know I felt honored that we won, that The Blue Devils had not won since 2001 and that I am proud of how far my section had come. It meant a lot to me when I heard we won in Pasadena because it showed me that as with anything you want in life, you really need to put forward that extra effort and show people how much you want to obtain your goal and it will happen. I sincerely want to thank everybody, the brass & visual staff, the members, the fans and just everybody. I really will miss this activity and wish I had one more year. It’s alright, I’m blessed that I could say I’m a Blue Devil. — Kristian


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I am from Iowa and had to fly to all of the camps, as many members do. This is an added challenge to being a member but is definitely doable. Don’t rule out The Blue Devils just because of travel inconvenience; it requires a bit of extra planning, time, and money, but it is totally worth it. There are a few things that will make the process easier. First of all, plan ahead. If you know there is a camp coming up and that you will be attending, start looking for plane tickets right away. In general, the sooner you buy them the cheaper they are (and there are more flight time options available). Secondly, I would recommend signing up for a frequent flier program with the airline you usually fly. You will accumulate a lot of miles flying to camps. Finally, communicate! If you aren’t sure you’ll be able to make all of the camps due to travel issues, money, or other conflicts, tell your caption head right away. They are really understanding and flexible people as long as you are responsible about letting them know in advance. Also, it is incredibly important to communicate with your teachers and professors at home. At the beginning of the semester, explain to them the activity you’re involved in and let them know what days you will have to miss because of travel to and from camps. Most professors will probably think

6/13/2016

it is a great opportunity and will excuse you from class when necessary. However, professors do not like to be told last minute you will be gone. I made the mistake last year of assuming that my college band director would not mind me missing one Friday afternoon rehearsal for a plane flight to a Blue Devils camp. I went in and told him the Monday before, and he was not pleased. My grade was lowered just from missing that one rehearsal! The Blue Devils do not provide housing for camps or for all-days, which can be inconvenient for those coming from far away and not knowing anybody in the Concord area. For the audition camp, I stayed at the Holiday Inn, which was nice but expensive. I was lucky enough to hear about Sonja Williams, a volunteer with The Blue Devils who allows as many members to stay at her house as can fit. If you need a place to stay for camps, ask around. Sonja is not the only volunteer who offers free housing. Also, some members are local to Concord and are willing to allow some people to stay at their houses. Not only does this save you some money, it also provides a great opportunity to make new friends in The Blue Devils. — Alissa

When I auditioned for drum major in 2007 I was only 17 and still finishing up high school. I was intimidated thinking about the others I would be competing against and the staff that would be judging me. When I asked people “What does the staff look for in a BD drum major,” the number one response was confidence. But just like everyone else, I get nervous before a performance or audition. So what I did was prepare myself extremely well beforehand so that I could be confident, knowing I was fully prepared and ready for anything. I prepared the music and then I went though a mock audition with my band director and some friends. Afterwards, I felt extremely prepared and ready for the audition. When the audition came around I didn’t worry about my competition, I just focused on my own gig and tried to enjoy the weekend. It was great to see how the audition process works and just be around so many great performers and amazing staff. During the audition, I tried to stay relaxed and act just like I did in my mock audition. During the interview I made sure I thought before I answered each question and just tried to be myself. You have to know why you want to be a Blue Devil and enjoy it. Just be yourself and have confidence. — Brian


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BLUE DEVILS STAFF If you have ANY questions about any part of the Blue Devils Brass audition process, please feel free to contact John Meehan at [email protected].

2016 Blue Devil Brass Staff: (left to right) Sean Snyder, Kevin Ronan, Steve Vento, John Meehan, James Rocillo, Bill Watson, Sam Pilafian, Eric Weingartner, Scott Palmer

6/13/2016


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Excellence is in our DNA. Backed by over 100 years of experience and knowledge, System Blue proudly delivers products and education for all of us. Our team of designers and educators have walked the very path you walk now. We have dreams as you do. System Blue strives to elevate the marching arts activity, support all involved and empower the performers to proudly strive for excellence. You are not alone, we share your passion. System Blue’s educational programs foster confidence and maturity, and promote growth and leadership skills. We are passionately focused on the marching arts and each person’s place in its culture. We cultivate extraordinary experiences. We have stood in your shoes and marched the same fields. We know you. We ARE you. System Blue empowers us all to reach our greatest potential.

TOGETHER, IT’S OUR TIME.

6/13/2016


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2017 BD Brass Audition

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