How to Prepare for Audition Camps

At this point of the year, most veteran and potential rookie Cadets are in the middle of their high school or college marching band schedule. This is a good opportunity to practice marching and playing technique. But to be a Cadet, you will need to take the additional time out of your very busy life and do extra rehearsal. This is what's going to separate you from everyone else. This rehearsal should definitely include more physical exertion (running laps daily is the best way to achieve the level of cardiovascular performance an eleven minute Cadet drill will require). Also, remember most shows have sections of 208 beats per minute and faster. Will you be ready for that 12 hour rehearsal day in Orlando when you march 208 all day?

I won't comment too much on the musical and guard aspects here because every section obviously has different responsibilities.

Make sure you have your transportation set for the camp. Know what day it starts, how you're getting to the airport, etc. Know how much money you are expected to pay at the camp to the corps. Make sure you have all the toiletries, etc. to live in southern New Jersey for a weekend with a lot of strangers.

Just keep pushing yourself every day and remember, no matter hard you are working, there is always someone else out there working harder than you who wants it more than you.