FAQ

Do I have to audition for the pre-camp?

What will the auditions be based on?

Technique, sound quality and rhythmic consistency. You do not need to prepare an individual audition piece. Potential members will prove these skills by implementing them by playing material from the packet in a group ensemble setting. Individual auditions will be used if needed.  

How do I get music to practice?

You can go to the contact us portion of this website and submit a form or you can visit the Bronco Marching Band website. You will be required to purchase the music. The cost of the packet is 20 dollars. Inside of the packet you will have all of the exercises and standard drumline repertoire. 

Specifically, what kind of sticks do the snares use?

In 2006, the snareline used Innovative Percussion FS-MM (Mike McIntosh) model sticks. In 2007, we used Innovative Percussion FS-2 model sticks. In 2008, we used Innovative Percussion FS-JC (Jim Casella) model sticks.

How big is the drumline?

In years past the drumline has grown to be as big as 12 snares, 7 quads, 8 basses and 12 cymbals (2001 - 2002 season). The average size of the drumline tends to be 7-8 snare and cymbal, 4 quad, 4 tri, and 5 bass. While this is our target size the drumline’s size is determined by the amount of players that audition in each section and the ability of those players. We do not pre-determine the amount of drums per section until the audition process is underway.

Do you actually use tri-toms?

Yes, we do have a tri-tom line. In 2001, we had 12 snares, 7 quads, 8 basses, and 12 cymbals. We couldn’t make those lines any bigger, so we decided to add a tri-tom section. The voicing fits in between the basses and quads. An additional benefit is that we can have a high and a low tenor voicing that can compliment each other.

Will the drumline interfere with my school work?

Rehearsals are scheduled at a time of day when few other classes meet and little class time is lost due to travel. With careful planning you should have time to participate in the drumline. As with any college activity, you will be responsible for keeping track of your time and keeping up with all of your academic work.

What do I bring to Precamp and auditions?

The Precamp will be an 8 hour outdoor rehearsal and some of the sections during the audition process will be outdoors for extended periods of time. Please prepare accordingly. 

Items to bring:

• Sticks/Mallets
• Three ring binder with music
• Pencil
• Drum Pad
• Water bottle
• Lunch or money for lunch. There are many restaurants are located nearby
• Sun Block
• Sunglasses
• Sneakers
• Ear plugs

You do not need to bring your own instrument. 

Who can join the drumline?

The bronco drumline is an ensemble-class in the College of Music open to students meeting the following criteria:

• Successful completion of the audition procedure
• Official enrollment at Western Michigan University, or admission to the Dual Enrollment program with a qualifying institution

Do I have to be a music major to be in the drumline?

What is the drumline's schedule? How often do you rehearse?

During the marching band season (Fall semester), the drumline rehearses with the marching band from 4:00 - 5:40pm, Monday through Friday. These rehearsals are mandatory and are part of the requirement for the academic class. Each sub section in the drumline also has a once a week, 2 hour rehearsal, at a time chosen by the members of that subsection. On game days there are morning rehearsals which last for about 3 -4 hours, as well as a warm up at "The Bronco" before the march down to the stadium. 

I'm still in high school, but not graduating. Can I still participate in Precamp or anything else with the drumline?

Yes. You may attend Precamp. This would be a great time during your college hunt to decide if a collegiate drumline is right for you.

Another awesome experience that is available to all high school band members is "Band day". This is typically the second home game of the season and high schools from Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana participate. Many of our current drumline members and marching band members did this when they were in high school.