We have a saying around here: "Once a Cadet, always a Cadet."
The amazing performance experiences, enduring friendships, and incredible life lessons that will be with you forever all start right here! Follow the simple steps below to become a Cadet in 2024.
We will be holding auditions for the 90th edition of The Cadets Drum Corps in six locations across the U.S. this fall. You can view event details and register for all audition locations below. Can't make it to any of these audition opportunities? While we would love to meet you in person, Video Auditions are a great way to receive feedback from our staff before traveling to an audition.
Thank you for your interest in The Cadets. We can't wait to welcome you into the maroon and gold!
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WHAT TO DO
We've made it easy
STEP 1
PACKETS
Everything you need to know
Even if you aren't auditioning, the packet has tons of info about being a Cadet, plus techniques, warm-ups, and exercises.
Packet Fee $50
STEP 2
AUDITION
IN PERSON OR ON VIDEO
Attend one of our in-person auditions, or send in a video to showcase your skills. You can register for an audition after you complete Step 1.
Audition Fee $100
STEP 3
Feedback
FINALIZE YOUR MEMBERSHIP
After your audition, you may receive a contract to join The Cadets in 2024, or you could receive a call-back for a second audition.
Call-back Audition $50
AUDITION OPTIONS
CHOOSE WHAT'S BEST FOR YOU
*Dates and locations are subject to change
Satellite Audition for BOA Grand Nationals Participants
When: November 9-10
Who: Brass Only
When: November 17-19
Who: Percussion Only
When: November 19
Who: Brass Only
When: December 3
Who: Brass & Percussion
When: December 3
Who: Brass & Percussion
When: December 10
Who: Brass & Percussion
Who: All Sections
*Required for Color Guard & Drum Major
MEMBER & CALL BACK CAMPS
December 15-17 | Erie, PA
January 12-14 | Erie, PA
February 9-11 | Erie, PA
March 15-17 | Erie, PA
April 26-28 | Erie, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
You've Got Questions - We've Got Answers
- $50 for Audition Packet
- $100 for Audition Camp or Video Audition
- $150 for Winter Activities *one-time fee for everyone who receives a call-back or contract
- $5,800 Member Fees (paid in full before Spring Training)
- $175-$295 Warburton mouthpiece (new brass players only)
- Optional section shirts, section swag items, member jackets, etc. up to your discretion
Brass/Color Guard/Battery – yes! We will have Cadets instruments here to play, but cannot guarantee equipment for all due to number of attendees. Please bring your own horn/drum/flag/rifle if you have it.
For Front Ensemble, we will have Cadets keyboards available, but auditionees might have to share based on number of attendees.
All meals during camp weekends are included with your registration. Our wonderful Food Team can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free needs. You are able to input dietary needs when creating your account and registering for camp.
PACK LIGHT, PACK SMART! If you are flying, make sure you know airline and TSA carry-on rules. Please label everything you bring with your name. Packing list:
Clothing:
- 3 t-shirts
- 3 shorts/sweatpants/joggers
- 3 undergarments
- 3 pairs of socks
- Tennis shoes
- Jacket/sweatshirt
Bedding/Toiletries:
- Standard twin sheets/sleeping bag
- Pillow
- Blanket
- Toiletries
- Shower sandals
Rehearsal/Other:
- Water jug
- Music binder • Pencil
- Music stand
Cadets shuttles are provided for all Member & Callback Camps in Erie, PA. Corps shuttles service both Cleveland International Airport (CLE) and Erie International Airport (ERI). It is recommended that your flight lands on Friday before 8:30 pm and departs Sunday after 5:00 pm for all camp weekends.
If you are driving to camp, parking will be available on Erie Sports Center campus and you will have access to your car all weekend. When you arrive at Erie Sports Center, turn into the main entrance and turn left toward the Cadets EQ/Food trucks. Please park in the same parking lot as the trucks. Camps operate as a closed campus—do not leave ESC until corps dismissal on Sunday.
Still Have Questions?
Write to us at info@cadets.org.
