Question 1

What is the GMU Indoor Drumline?

Accepted Answer

The GMU Indoor Drumline (a.k.a. GMUID) is a member of the Green Machine Ensembles (http://greenmachine.gmu.edu)at George Mason University.(http://gmu.edu) We participate in competitive performance circuits such as WGI (http://wgi.org)and the Atlantic Indoor Association,(http://atlanticindoor.org) as well as other events in the NOVA community.
 
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Question 2

Can anyone audition?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Anyone is allowed to attend our audition clinics for a one-time fee. Our professional education team will assess your playing, marching, and moving proficiency, as well as your compatibility with the culture. This is a great way to see if the GMUID is right for you, and learn skills that you will carry forward regardless. 
 
In order to receive a membership contract, you must be between 18 years of age (and have graduated high school) and young enough to qualify based on the current WGI age limit.

Question 3

Can I show up to auditions without having registered?

Accepted Answer

Registration at the door is allowed (card only, no cash), but you are highly encouraged to sign up online prior to your arrival.

Question 4

What should I bring to auditions?

Accepted Answer

In almost all cases, there is no need to bring an instrument to auditions. The following items are useful: sticks/mallets, practice pad, audition packet/other paperwork (in a binder w/ sheet protectors), athletic clothes/shoes, water bottle, and a packed lunch OR money to eat out.

Question 5

How are membership contracts awarded?

Accepted Answer

The staff strives to make the most informed decisions possible, so expect to undergo a thorough process that takes time. Our policy is to be transparent, so if you aren’t sure about your standing, it’s mostly likely because it is still being assessed. Contrary to popular belief, it’s not always the best musicians and performers that earn spots- it’s about the best fit for the ensemble. We strongly value intangibles such as attitude, level of preparation, willingness to adapt, and rate of progress regardless of where you start.

Question 6

What is the rehearsal/performance schedule like?

Accepted Answer

Each season has it's own unique layout, but there are some constants. We usually run three audition camps between late September and late October, and full weekend rehearsals start in November. A typical rehearsal weekend is Friday night 8pm-11pm, Saturday 10am-9pm, and Sunday 9am-4pm. We also have a Winter Camp 12/26-12/30 (regardless of the day of the week) as well as a full week rehearsal leading into WGI Championships in April.

Question 7

What is the commitment like?

Accepted Answer

The GMUID provides a highly competitive experience, which requires an equally high level of work from its membership. In addition to attending rehearsals from October through April as laid out above, be prepared to spend time at home between rehearsals practicing and completing video assignments.

Question 8

Where does the group rehearse?

Accepted Answer

Some of our rehearsals and performances are at GMU’s main campus, while we also have weekends in off-campus locations such as schools and recreational facilities throughout Northern Virginia and the mid-Atlantic. The group takes a yearly trip to Dayton, OH to compete at WGI World Championships.

Question 9

What if I have a conflict with an audition, rehearsal, or performance?

Accepted Answer

Being a member of this ensemble is a considerable commitment. Outside of a family emergency, immovable school commitment, or injury/ailment, members are expected to prioritize all GMUID events. Through clear communication and forethought, most conflicts are able to be resolved.

Question 10

How much does it cost?

Accepted Answer

Membership dues are an essential part of providing a world class experience. They are used to pay for necessities such as equipment, staff, transportation, facilities, hotels, and other operational expenses. We work hard each season to keep these dues as low as possible as to not exclude any potential member for financial reasons. 
 
As of 2026, the base dues are $2,200 for the full season, with discounts provided to veteran members ($100 off) and GMU students ($200 off). While these dues are almost entirely inclusive, there will be unavoidable additional expenses for things such as uniform accessories, personal travel costs, and meals.

Question 11

I don’t live in Northern Virginia, can I still be a part of the group?

Accepted Answer

YES! In the past, we have had members and staff travel from North Carolina, Delaware, New Jersey, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, and even Canada. These members sometimes undergo long weekly commutes, and other times move closer to the area temporarily. We are happy to help facilitate both versions of long distance membership, but ultimately it is up to the individual. Where there’s a will, there’s a way.