I have decided to audition for Madison Scouts 2012!

[NewSousa2010]

I have one problem. I would like to get my hands on a marching tuba. Basically A Contra. Does anybody in the Carolinas know where i can get one cheaply?

[jmg71196]

*

[Biggs]

If your any smart and you live in the Carolina's

[CLDmusic]

If you're gonna buy a marching horn, your least expensive way is probably to buy one used from a corps. I know all the Yamaha corps turn over as much of their equipment each year as possible. Go to their sites and look for their sales.

[NewSousa2010]

If your any smart and you live in the Carolina's then you should try for crown. My advice:
1)Audition for Crown instead of Madi
2)Raise money for travel expenses, dues, and a marching horn.
3)Go to the brasswind and get a price on a marching tuba.
4)Go to your local music shop with the brasswind price, they usually can beat it.

Crown is too high of a level for me right now.

[NewSousa2010]

If you're gonna buy a marching horn, your least expensive way is probably to buy one used from a corps. I know all the Yamaha corps turn over as much of their equipment each year as possible. Go to their sites and look for their sales.

Why do they do that?

[AHynds]

I'm going to be the devil's advocate here.

You could take the money you would spend in doing drum corps and instead save up to buy a real tuba.

Glad I got that off my chest. Now, time to put on my flame-proof armor and hide from the drum corps fans.

[NewSousa2010]

I'm going to be the devil's advocate here.

You could take the money you would spend in doing drum corps and instead save up to buy a real tuba.

Glad I got that off my chest. Now, time to put on my flame-proof armor and hide from the drum corps fans.

i cant do that. Im a junior this year and next year is the only year i have left for my parents to help me before college. I happen to be a drum corps fan... -.-

[jmg71196]

*

[NewSousa2010]

Crown is too high of a level for me right now.

That's bullshit. Madi's level of play is comparable to that of Crown, and personally I think all of the finalist corps visual level is the same(and at the audition camps they don't really judge you on visuals, because they teach you their personal marching style during the season; so just keep working out and make sure you can hold your horn up right, and you'll be good).

My director knows staff at both corps, and he said crown looks more at personal talent then Madison Scouts do. And is my dream to march the scouts anyway.

[TexTuba]

If your any smart and you live in the Carolina's

[CMRO225]

Saying Madison doesn't look at personal talent level is BS. How would you judge someone? I was a contracted member this year but chose not too march this year. I can assure you that they don't just take anyone. Possibly before this year, but they are finally at the level to where they can turn away mediocre players to accept the better ones, even if it does take until May.

[tubajones93]

.

[hockeyched]

If it's your dream to march scouts then march scouts, but dont let anyone tell you that you arent good, or old enough to go some place. I marched with people who were 16 and people who were 22, it doesnt matter as long as you show up and work hard. One of the least skilled players I knew marched a championship drum corps, it isn't as competitive as you think. Basically, if you can hold the horn and move well, most places will take you over a fat guy who can play better. So do some push ups, start holding up heavy things, and run, and I am sure you'll get into where ever you want.

In regards to the horn, I wouldnt buy one. They will let you audition on anything, and once youre in you can check horns out, as someone else already mentioned I believe. Save that money and pay for tour fees, things you need for tour..etc.

I have been around the activity for a while so if you have any questions, feel free to pm me. Hope that helps!

[NewSousa2010]

Saying Madison doesn't look at personal talent level is BS. How would you judge someone? I was a contracted member this year but chose not too march this year. I can assure you that they don't just take anyone. Possibly before this year, but they are finally at the level to where they can turn away mediocre players to accept the better ones, even if it does take until May.

I said Crown Does it more so than the Scouts.

[Michael Bush]

.

[Casey Tucker]

Hi,
At one point I was affiliated with the group but honestly couldn't "cut it" and voluntarily left. If you're set on scouts then go for it. They're a great group of guys and the directors/staff are all very pleasant to be with. They will take great care of you and you will be treated as a brother among the entire organization. This is a group that is deeply rooted in tradition that you won't get from most other corps. If you walk in prepared and ready to work you will fit in greatly. Madison has a reputation for being a high-caliber playing corps and intense on the field.

In regards to auditions and judgement for all drum and bugle corps, everyone has some sort of trial/audition process. Some are more rigorous than others but nonetheless you will have to prove some sort of playing ability and commitment to being the best you can be. Every aspect of this process carries its own weight. For example, you can be a virtuoso tubist but if you're difficult to work with or cannot physically keep up (or at least showing some effort to improve) can sway a panel to deny you membership. It works the other way as well; you can be the easiest, most fit person who can march his/her A$$ off but if you are unable to demonstrate a competent playing level a panel MIGHT deny you. I say might because IMHO I'd rather work with/spend SEVERAL months with someone who is willing to bust their butt that can make a decent sound than be with a diva. What does this mean? You NEED to walk into camps with an open mind, prepared and ready to work. As many will agree this is true with most, if not all, corps. Plus, drum corp auditions are usually not a one audition type of process. If you make a good impression but the panel is not sure of the fit, they will likely ask you back to the next camp to get some more time with you.

Now, as far as purchasing a contra I would advise you against it for several reasons:
1. There will be an instrument available to you and (with most corps) if you are committed/contracted they will most likely let you take the horn home between camps. If not, you always have a horn with your school (I'm assuming) to keep in playing shape. If it's adjusting to holding the weight you can practice horn 'pops' and holding by using your concert tuba. BE CAREFUL as the braces probably are not made with withstand that kind of stressed but this is how I practiced. You can also try strengthening your upper body with weights.
2. Save the money you would spend for your tour dues. As stated above, there's no reason to spend money that is better spent elsewhere.
3. Save the money for plane/bus tickets to Chicago. (take the bus from Chicago to Madison/Baraboo) Unless you live within driving distance which I would suggest.
4. Save the money for a tuba for college. (if that's a route you're planning on taking)
5. Save the money for college.

With all this said, weigh the pros and cons. (Do you mind sleeping on gym floors? Can you and do you mind sleeping on a bus? Etc.) I think if you end up marching you will gain an experience like none other. Good luck and sorry for such a long rant!

-CT

[NewSousa2010]

I have decided to march either crown or spirit of Atlanta. And as a last resort teal sound. (not in order of placements in finals, in order of distance from my city) my parents wouldnt agree to me going more a state over.

[UNMTUBADUDE]

Have fun with that man. I know a guy who marched Contra with Troopers last year and marched with Phantom this year.

[Nicholas]

Good luck! I'm off in november to audition for Boston Crusaders and Cavaliers!