FAQ
-
What is Redline?
Redline is a Percussion Independent World class (PIW) performance ensemble. Every year, our members travel to perform and compete in events organized by our governing circuits.
Click here to learn more about who we are and what we aspire to do.
-
Where does the ensemble rehearse?
We are very fortunate to be a part of the growing community at PARC - Plymouth Arts & Recreation Complex, located in the heart of downtown Plymouth, MI.
PARC’s mission “to enrich lives through quality arts, education, and recreation programs for all ages” aligns perfectly with our own and we are grateful for the support of their administrative team.
-
What can I expect in terms of time commitment?
Redline rehearses on Sundays in October/November, with full camp weekends December through mid-April.
The general format for our camp weekends is as follows (subject to change depending on facility availability):
Friday: 8p-12a
Saturday: 10a-11p
Sunday: 10a-6pBecause we strive to complete at the top level of our activity, members should also anticipate a time commitment to make progress on both musical and visual responsibilities as an individual between rehearsal weekends.
-
How much does it cost?
There is a one-time audition fee of $80.
2025 membership dues for battery and front ensemble members will be between $1800-2000 and for visual ensemble members, $1000. This covers all implements, equipment, uniforms, shoes, props, instruction, design, jerseys, rehearsal facilities and housing when the group travels as well as administrative expenses like insurance and registration fees for the circuits we compete in.The only expense not covered within dues are member jackets, which are an optional expense for new members and typically cost about $100. When offered a contract, there will be a required $250 deposit to secure a position with the ensemble.
Our admin team does everything possible to manage expenses and keep dues low. We hold each member to the same standard of paying dues in full and on time - as costs of operation continue to rise and as we continue to invest in new equipment needed to make the ensemble successful. Due dates are set throughout the season for those who cannot pay in one lump sum, and flexible payment options can be made on a case-by-case basis. If you are having trouble meeting the payment schedule, communication is key!
-
How can I prepare for auditions?
Download the audition packet for the instrument you’re interested in and do your best to learn and retain it! Confidence goes a long way - and confidence is gained through repetition and preparation - so learn the exercises in the packet to best represent your abilities.
Battery members should also expect a visual element to be included at each of the audition dates. Any amount of physical preparedness, flexibility, and strength training you can do before auditions will only improve your experience working through movement concepts.
-
How old do I have to be?
Individuals must be 22 years of age or younger at 12:01 AM on April 1 of any given year to be eligible.
Typically, our membership is made up of students 18-22. Still, we encourage students of all experience levels to participate in our audition process! The knowledge and confidence gained from attending an audition is extremely beneficial and can help you understand the level of excellence expected of members in a world class ensemble.
Students who are currently enrolled at a school with an existing competitive percussion program will not be granted a contract. Any exceptions are handled on a case-by-case basis and will require written consent from the student’s scholastic program or percussion director.
-
What if I can't make one of the audition dates, but still want to be considered?
For the best experience and potential to secure a spot, plan to attend all audition dates. However, if you are unable to attend one of these dates, email director@performredline.org for information on submitting a video audition.
-
Is housing provided?
The ensemble does not provide housing during regular rehearsal weekends. Every year we have members who travel to participate. Once positions in the group are set, our admin and leadership teams can assist anyone who needs to coordinate housing arrangements or even carpool options when traveling to rehearsals.
Redline does provide housing when the group travels out of state.
-
How does Redline handle scheduling conflicts?
Accepting a position as a Redline member is a significant commitment. Our expectation is to always act in the best interest of the team by prioritizing all Redline rehearsals and performances, The only exceptions to this would be family or medical emergencies, funerals, or school obligations that were scheduled prior to signing your contract that cannot reasonably be rescheduled.
When a conflict does come up, communication is key!
-
Am I allowed to miss a Redline weekend for a drum corps audition?
Yes! We strongly encourage our members to participate in DCI. We only ask that individuals make wise choices about the number of auditions they plan to attend. This helps to limit the amount of missed rehearsal time with Redline.
This is always handled on a case-by-case basis, and again, communication is key!
As a general rule of thumb, you should aim to miss no more than one Redline rehearsal weekend per month for a drum corps camp. You should never plan to attend a drum corps camp that conflicts with a performance, regardless of whether it is a local show or a WGI regional.
-
Can my family get involved?
Yes! Please! We love when parents are willing to volunteer time to help the ensemble.
Things we typically need help with include -
uniform alterations
fundraising coordination
meal donations
equipment transportation and loading/unloading at shows
prop and equipment maintenance
… and the list goes on! Any time donation from friends and family is greatly appreciated!
Still have a question?
ask it here or email director@performredline.org