On this page, you will find all information pertaining to CHS Drumline Auditions. If you have any questions, please contact the drumline instruction, Hunter Deguisne, at hdeguisne@pusd11.net, or Mr. Simmons, the Cactus Band Director at jsimmons@pusd11.net.
Chop Shops, Thursdays from 5-7pm
“Chop Shops” are audition clinics that take place in the Cactus HS Band room to work on the audition material ahead of time. It is also a way to get to know the instructor and other members of the program ahead of time. Students must attend a majority of these chop shops to have a realistic chance at making the line. They are the following Thursdays:
- January 23rd
- January 30th
- February 6th
- February 13th
- February 20th
- March 6th
Auditions, March 27th, 5-8pm
Auditions will take place on Thursday, March 27th, at 5pm. There will be an individual and group component to the auditions and more information will be shared with students at the chop shops. The line will be set this evening and students can get feedback from the instructors on their auditions afterwards should they wish.
Those who make the drumline will have Thursday rehearsals every week on starting April 3rd from 5-7pm. These are mandatory to maintain good standing in the drumline.
Other Information
Please bring the following:
- A positive attitude and willingness to learn
- Gallon Water Jug
- Athletic Clothing
- Pencils and Highlighters
- Black Music Binder Containing the Following
- Sheet Protectors
- Music from the Drive on instrument(s) you want to audition for
- General audition material
Expectations
Please note that drumline members are held to a higher standard than regular band members. This includes mandatory additional rehearsals during the spring, summer, and season*, additional video assignments, and an expectation of 100% rehearsal/performance attendance where other extra-curriculars come second to band at all times. All of this information can be found in the “Drumline Contract” within the Drive found above. Please consider these expectations before committing to auditioning for drumline. If you are a percussionist and feel you are not ready for the additional expectations, you are welcome to join the group in our front ensemble where you will still receive a well-rounded and rigorous percussion education but be held to a standard member’s expectations.
*There are weekly rehearsals in June, but there is leniency for pre-planned vacations. Please communicate with Mr. Simmons and Hunter ahead of time. You will still be held to deadlines of video assignments.
The address for Cactus HS is 6330 W Greenway Rd, Glendale, AZ 85306. You will want to go to the back parking lot on 63rd avenue instead of the main entrance. Here is the map on where to drop-off/park and how to access the band room:
