2012 DRUM LINE PRE-CAMP

Sunday, July 15th from 10am-5pm @ The Hunter Smith Band Building

Open to potential 2012 UVa Drum Line members only.

If you have not already done so, please contact us, let us know you are interested, and register with our drumline instructor, Patrick Zampetti. Contact Patrick @: patrick@studiozonline.com. Also please fill our the General Band Interest Form. Please download and read the 2010 CMB Drumline Information Packet which contains important information about the audition process (Username and Password required).

WHAT TO EXPECT

Although not required, the pre-camp is an excellent opportunity for future and returning drum line members. The day will focus mainly on exercises and technique. These two foci will be the major elements of the audition process. Preparation of exercises before pre-camp is vital, as the audition process begins with pre-camp.

The pre-camp is also an opportunity for drummers who are less skilled to receive helpful guidance. If you do not have the exercises mastered, that is ok. Every skill level of musician can benefit from this experience. The pre-camp is a learning opportunity.

TIME and PLACE:

Sunday, July 15th from 10-5 @ the Hunter Smith Band Building.
Hunter Smith Band Building
180 Culbreth Road
P.O. Box 400856
Charlottesville, VA 22904

TIPS

Bring your own sticks.
Bring a Drum Pad.
Wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
Get plenty of rest the preceding night.
Familiarize yourself with the exercises, beats, and technique guide. (see music section)

Frequently asked pre-camp questions:

Q. Do I need to go to the pre-camp in order to make the drum line?

A. Yes, attendance is highly recommended. Contact Patrick Zampetti, our drumline instructor, @ patrick@studiozonline.com if you have issues with attending pre-camp.

Q. What will occur at the pre-camp?

A. The pre-camp will consist of sessions covering technique, exercises, and other fundamentals.

Q. What do I need to bring to the pre-camp?

A. You need to bring your own sticks. Wear comfortable clothing and tennis shoes. Refreshments will be provided.

Q. Do I have to be a percussionist to play on the drum line?

A. No. We invite anyone to audition to play on the drum line. Many marching percussionists are brass and wind players. The selection process takes into consideration your fundamental musical skills in addition to your percussive skills. You do not need to be a percussion major. You do not need to be a music major. You do not need marching experience. By developing your playing skills and having a good attitude, you give yourself the best opportunity to succeed in the band camp audition and receive one of the available percussion spots.

Q. How do I prepare for the pre-camp, audition, and season?

A. The first step is to contact us, let us know you are interested, and register. Download the exercises (available on the UVA drum line music page.) Practice the exercises and the basics. Use a metronome. Important things to work on are consistent even sound quality from each hand, relaxation, musicianship, and clarity. Also, since the performance season includes different themed shows for each home gameday, memorization is important. Memorizing the exercises and beats prior to camp, though not required, is a good preparation for the typical demands of the performance season.