As October rolled into November, final preparations were being made for audition weekends around the country. This month marks the beginning of what is known as “Drum Corps season,” in which thousands of young talented musicians and performers put their skills to the test. The ultimate goal for each of these hopeful students is a chance to spend the summer performing for hundreds of thousands of fans around the country. Among the many corps throughout the United States, the New Jersey based Jersey Surf is eagerly anticipating what this first audition weekend will bring.

Coming off of the wild success of their 2012 program, Bridgemania, the Jersey Surf has been putting their overnight sensationalism to good use. Both staff and members are spending their weekends recruiting marching band students at competitions. Many young hopefuls talk it up with them, anticipating how they might work their way to the most talked about corps in the country. Social media outlets such as Facebook are blowing up with past and hopeful members, sharing stories and looking for advice.

Many of those preparing to audition are eager as ever for the first camp to roll around. “This will be my first year with any corps,” potential front ensemble member, Tom Wiswell, shares. “I’m looking forward to getting funky!”

Like with any audition process, with the excitement also brings nervousness. Another hopeful, Emily Miville, writes “Most newbies are “hyping.” I’m just hyperventilating!”

Veterans of the Jersey Surf are quick to calm the fears of those looking to audition for the upcoming season. Whether it’s with fun stories or fond memories, nerves are lessened as the thought of the rewards overtake the fear of competing for one of 150 spots in the corps. “Understandably, a lot of you are super nervous,” advises Lauren Buzdygon, a seasoned tuba player. “Some of you will be new to your instruments, especially in the brass line. That’s alright! You’ll be fine! Come ready to learn until your brain leaks out of your ears on Sunday.” Comments such as this change the demeanor of those looking to audition, and suddenly, it’s not so scary anymore.

It’s not just the thought of success that is drawing people to the Jersey Surf. While many corps are asking “have YOU got what it takes?” or “can you HANDLE it?” this corps is asking “are you ready to share the love?” Surf is different from many corps in that’s not just about what you have to do to win. It’s about putting on an unforgettable performance for everyone in the stands. The judges are important, this is true. But at the end of the day, a score is just a number. A standing ovation with cheers of joy, however, is a memory that will last a lifetime.