FAQs

How do I join?

The first step to joining is to register in our online database, Bandwindow, by filling out the form requesting information. Once you do, you will be on our texting (or emailing) list for any announcements we have prior to or between camps.

Register Now

If I have auditioned or marched with Jersey Surf in the past, do I need to fill out an application again?

Yes. Anyone who is interested must fill out a new application each year before they rehearse with us. Please use the same email address you used in the past. If you are using a different email address, you can change your log in information and the email address you receive emails from on the homepage of your profile.

What should I bring to camp?

Prior to each camp you will receive a text or email to RSVP for camp.
For November and December camps, if you own your own equipment, you are encouraged to bring it if feasible.

Here is a packing list of suggested items to bring with you:

Do you provide transportation to and from public transit stations?

Yes, we will make arrangements to pick you up from and drop you off if you are planning to travel via public transportation such as air, rail or bus to the greater Philadelphia/Southern NJ area. After you fill out your RSVP for the weekend, you will receive a confirmation that includes a request for travel information if you need to reserve a seat on a scheduled shuttle. Please make sure to complete the form one week prior to the camp weekend. You will be contacted several days before the weekend with the contact information of the shuttle transportation team.

See “Travel Info” Tab for more detailed information.

Can I send in a video?

See “Video Audition” Tab for additional information.

I just started learning to play/spin because I want to audition, but I’m not very good yet.  What should I do?

Audition anyway! Most of our staff are professional educators, and you will learn a lot from one weekend. Even if you don’t make the section of your choice on the first try or if you have no intention on coming to camp past the auditions, it will be great experience, will help to prepare you for next year and will provide you with useful information you can use in your other musical endeavors.

Can I audition for drum major?

We generally pick our drum majors from within the drum corps because of the amount of leadership responsibilities drum majors have. However, we are accepting applications for field conductors. If you have any interest in being a conductor, purchase the audition packet in our store.

How many weekends am I allowed to miss?

Everyone in the corps is expected to be at every rehearsal their section is scheduled to attend. It is your responsibility to make your caption head and aware of your conflicts as soon as you know about them so that we can work together to ensure the success of everyone involved.

How much does it cost?

The cost to march varies slightly each year, and are outlined under the FEES tab. Our fees are comprised from the following components:

  • Audition fee (due before your first camp)
  • Camp Fees (for each camp you attend) — discount if paid prior by Monday before camp.
  • Tuition, Uniform & Tour Fee — includes a lot of stuff! See FEES tab for a detailed outline.

Are there ways to reduce my tuition, tour fee, etc.?

There are a number of ways to offset your fees. Along with getting sponsors through our member sponsorship program, you will be able to take advantage of multiple fundraising opportunities. We will discuss those opportunities in detail at rehearsal as they become available throughout the season.

What if I’m still in school when the corps moves in for Spring Training?

This is something we deal with every year. We want you to take care of all your school obligations and join us as soon as you are able. Many of our members with conflicts will join us for several days, return to school to finish finals and attend graduation, and then come back to spring training. As with any other conflict, as long as you communicate with the staff well in advance it shouldn’t be a problem. Communication is the key to our mutual success!

Can my parents stay at a camp for the weekend?

Absolutely! Parents are always invited and encouraged to come, however our policies require those wishing to stay overnight at corps housing facilities to complete a background check and other requirements at least two weeks in advance of arrival. Please contact us via email at “info@jerseysurf.org” to discuss specifics.

Jersey Surf administrators and seasoned volunteers will be at every audition and rehearsal weekend to answer any questions your parents may have. There are many volunteer opportunities in which your parents can take part which are an enormous help to us each weekend. We are also happy to recommend local hotel accommodations for those from out of town who wish to help out but who aren’t able to stay at the school/housing site.