Chris Lyman, 19 Tarrant County College Crossmen Trumpet, 2009-2010 How did you choose your corps? When I was in high school I watched drum corps every year at the DCI Tour event in Dallas. I always saw Crossmen there, but I never really knew how hard working and talented the members were until I came to the first camp. That work ethic is one of the things that drew me to the corps. What was the experience like the first time you auditioned for a corps? I was welcomed and introduced to numerous veteran members, and the staff treated me well during the audition process. The camps really take a lot out of you, and at first you might be a little sore for a couple of days afterward, but it is all worth it. Running down the schedule of a typical rehearsal/audition camp: Usually after waking up we go to breakfast. That's always a good start because Crossmen food is always good! We then workout which normally consists of conditioning, cardio or muscle building exercises. By the time that is done, we often work on marching basics before breaking for lunch. Next we work in sections (brass, percussion, guard) for the rest of the day. On Sundays we have a "show and tell" for the parents and any other guests at the camp, where we perform all of the music we have been working on throughout the weekend. What's the best way to prepare for an audition? The best way to prepare for an audition is to play just the way you always do at your program back home. Let the staff do what they need to make you the right player for the spot. It is crucial that the staff molds you to the position because not all spots are the same. Not all of the parts play the exact same role and the staff knows what it needs to do to pull those parts together and make the ensemble the best it can be. What would you say to someone who is unsure whether or not to audition for a drum corps? If you are unsure if marching in a drum corps is right for you, go to a few audition camps and talk to veteran members (vets) about what the summer will be like. Ask them questions about what it is like to be on the road and to perform. Ask about how the show comes together and how it changes throughout the summer. Ask how the constant travel is on the body and how your body changes as you practice every single day. Any other advice? Continue talking to people you meet at camps, especially the vets. By following their example, you'll gain experience with how to get better visually and musically during the audition process. Learn more about corps audition dates, locations and additional info.