GEORGE MASON INDOOR DRUMLINE – JOIN OUR TEAM!
The George Mason University Indoor Drumline was founded in the fall of 2007 by Dr. Michael Nickens and Chris Martin as an effort to expand the reach of the marching percussion activity and bring an independent, indoor percussion ensemble to the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. 2009 marked the first competitive season for the GMU drumline and in its inaugural season, the drumline performed in WGI Percussion Independent Open (PIO) finals; finishing 7th.
Since GMU’s first season, the ensemble has achieved consistent and measurable improvement in each competitive year. In 2012, GMU won the WGI PIO World Championship with their program, “Go,” and very shortly after announced their self-promotion to WGI Independent World class for the 2013 season. With new excitement, enthusiasm, and a new design team, the GMU drumline performed in 2013 WGI World Class finals, finishing in 8th place with a score of 92.25.
Successful auditions are required to join the Mason Drumline – expect stiff competition! Season auditions/ clinics are open to Mason students, regional collegiate students, and advanced high school percussionists. Age limit is 22 at time of March/April competitions. If you are accepted into the ensemble, regular rehearsals are held over extended weekends (Friday evening through Sunday afternoon) from December through April (with some skip dates). Spring competitions involve travel and high energy performances. Auditions and rehearsals take place at the de Laski Performing Arts Building on the GMU Fairfax Campus, located at 4400 University Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030.
Note: Since the auditions are formatted as educational clinics, you are welcome to register and attend even if you are not currently ready to join the Drumline team!
PREPARING FOR THE AUDITION
Practice effectively! Preparation is a key success factor when determining who will be a part of the ensemble. These clinics are not your opportunity to practice. They are your opportunity to get world class feedback from staff members and showcase your skills and abilities. You will get what you give.
Ask questions! Our staff/education team is here for YOUR benefit and to facilitate your development. If you are unsure of what to expect, an approach, technique, musical passage, etc. send us an email or come to camp with your questions ready. We want to help.
2015-16 SEASON COST:
$40 Audition/Clinic fee if prepaid online, or $50 if paid on-site on audition day. Cost per audition/clinic weekend, includes audition materials (sent electronically). Save $20 on the third clinic by registering online for all three at once.
$1,500 full year participation Fee – (covers equipment, rehearsals, competition fees, and travel & lodging – a monthly payment plan is available after initial deposit)
2015-16 SEASON AUDITION/ CLINIC DATES:
• First Audition Weekend – Saturday & Sunday, September 12 & 13, 2015 REGISTER NOW • Second Audition Weekend – Saturday & Sunday, October 10 & 11, 2015 REGISTER NOW • Third Audition Weekend – Saturday & Sunday, November 7 & 8, 2015 REGISTER NOW
Passed the audition? Register for the full season here.
We understand that conflicts with one of the audition dates may exist; however, you are encouraged to come to as many weekends as possible to give yourself the best opportunity to make a spot in the ensemble. These auditions are offered in a clinic format and are a wonderful opportunity for marching percussionists to develop their skills. It’s also a chance for potential members to showcase their abilities in order to become a part of our World Class organization.
Mason Drumline Rehearsals start Friday, December 4, 2015.
Please note: GMU does NOT provide housing during the normal camp weekends; however, once the ensemble is set, we will do our best to ensure that all members have housing accommodations.