Percussion Auditions

Congratulations on your interest in joining the Marching Grizzlies & the Grassfield Percussion! We pride ourselves on being one of the very best percussion sections not only in Hampton Roads, but in the world. Belonging to the Grassfield Percussion is earned. It is earned not just in auditions, but every day on & off the field & throughout the offseason. Belonging to the Grassfield Percussion is a privilege.

This season will be full of new experiences, challenging music, choreography, time spent with friends new & old, & most importantly—opportunities for you to grow & perform as a musician. We expect you to do your best at all times, both as a member & as a musician. We expect you to be ready to learn & eager to improve. We know that if you meet our expectations, you will have an outstanding season that you are proud of. Carefully read all of the audition information so that you are prepared & ready to not only be successful, but ready to thrive & have a great season!

Audition process

Auditions for the Grassfield Marching Grizzlies Percussion Section will take place over three camp days in May: May 10, 17, and 24. There are a limited number of spots available for each position, so students must come prepared to give themselves the best chance at earning a position. All students are highly encouraged to learn the audition materials (specifically the exercises) before the first camp day—students who wait until camp to start learning the music will most likely not earn placement. All students are required to complete the audition materials for the Front Ensemble, ensuring a solid foundation in mallet percussion and technique. Those interested in auditioning for Snare Drum or Bass Drum will have additional audition requirements, which will be detailed below. Early preparation, strong work ethic, and commitment to the process are essential for earning a spot in this year’s percussion section.

Fundamentals

All prospective members should carefully read our fundamentals packet, which explains the basic techniques used in the Grassfield Percussion. Prospective members will be expected to use all of the techniques in this packet during auditions.

Coming Soon!

Front Ensemble

7/8 Octaves (80-120bpm)
Rhythm Survey (100bpm)
- All: Lines 1-3
- Bass Drums: Lines 1-5
- Snares/Marimbas: Lines 1-7
Metric Green, C, F, Bb Major (90bpm)
Quad Stop Chords (90bpm)
Marimbas: Marimba Excerpt, Broccoli

*For students that have not been taught 4 mallet technique, we will be teaching all members the proper grips & techniques at our camps. We are aware this technique is not taught in middle school.

Rhythm Survey

Front Ensemble Exercises

Marimba Excerpt