Percussion Instructor: TBD

2026-27 Drumline and Front Ensemble Auditions

Introduction

The following information and exercises will help you in preparation for the audition process and the upcoming season. This packet is designed to inform you of the techniques we utilize in our ensemble and the qualities that we look for in our members. We wish you the best of luck throughout the audition process and with all of your endeavors.

Audition Dates are May 18th-20th

What to Bring to Auditions

A Good Attitude – We look for much more than just strong hands from our members. We are looking for members who are aware and confident within the ensemble, and also members who will represent themselves and Wildcat Band well outside of the band. Come with an attitude to soak up as much as possible throughout the auditions. Furthermore, I expect you all to act maturely and with high regard for the short amount of time we have during auditions. We will have a lot to do during auditions, with group time and then individual auditions, so please be aware of this and try not to socialize too much during auditions. We have limited time, and a lot of work to get done. I take these auditions very seriously, and don’t make the drive just to waste my or your time, and I expect you to do the same.

Music – We expect the members of the Wildcat band front ensemble to act in a professional manner at all times. This includes being prepared. Know the music and please bring printed music with you to auditions. I would highly recommend a binder with sheet protectors. Your music will be organized well for the whole season this way.

Mallets/Sticks/Implements/Etc. – Deming High School will have mallets and sticks available for you to use during auditions. However, if you have some of your own of good quality, please bring them! That way we are never short of mallets and have plenty to choose from for sound quality (we will take good care of your mallets and not lend them out etc. if you do not want them to be).

Percussionists – if you have sticks, BRING THEM.

What to Prepare for Auditions

Audition Information

Not everyone is guaranteed a spot on drumline, but everyone can play in the front ensemble. Keyboard spots are limited.

1. Drumline:  1 Snare,1 Tenor drum, 4 bass drums (additional spots available for pep band and parades)

2. Keyboards: 1-2 Marimbas, 1 Vibes, 1 Xylophone, 1 Bells (possibly same player as xylophone)

3. Keyboard/Synth: 1

4. Percussion part (triangle, concert bass drum, gong, chimes)

This results in a total of 7 parts in the Front ensemble and up to 8 on Drumline. We welcome you to audition for as many positions as you would like (please try everything you are interested in!).

Audition Material

Front ensemble- 

1. Green scales in as many keys as you can

2. Troubadour's March (We will rotate parts.)

Drumline-

1. Double beat (everyone) 

2. Snare and Tenor drums will play stick control

3. Basses will play Jedi Timing

4. Imagine (DL cadence)