If you are interested in joining the MRD's, read the following information and if you have additional questions, please contact us at rikkersd@jmu.edu or driscocl@jmu.edu.

How to become a
Marching Royal Duke...

Who can join?
That is one of the biggest questions asked of our office. The answer is: Any student at James Madison University may participate in the Marching Royal Dukes. You don’t have to be a music major; you just need a strong desire to be one of “Virginia’s Finest.” (Note audition information about color guard and percussion) Since marching band is a class, please tell your advisor that you will be joining the MRD’s and he/she will assist you in registering for the appropriate course.

How much does it cost?
Mainly hard work and enthusiasm. Attendance at our pre-season band camp is required, but the Marching Royal Dukes pick up the tab for your meals and housing. When you get to band camp, you will be required to purchase shoes, gloves, a baseball cap and a MRD t-shirt. Each section of the band may have a certain item that you will need to purchase (such as sticks for percussion).

How much time does it take?
Less than you think. Our normal rehearsal schedule is sectionals on Monday, and rehearsals on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM. On weeks of performances, we have a special rehearsal and a warm-up on Saturday morning. Marching Band is a class and all members MUST be registered for MUAP237. Please make sure your advisor knows that you will be in Marching Band so you can be scheduled appropriately. NOTE: When the band performs, attendance is required at all games and playoff games even when the game may occur during a break such as Thanksgiving.

When are auditions?
Percussion and Color Guard - Audition dates for prospective members of the percussion and color guard sections will be held Saturday, June 28, 2008. Percussion auditions are held for both battery and auxiliary percussionists. Once we are aware of your interest in performing as a color guard or percussion member, further information on the auditions will follow. Upon successful completion of this audition, you will receive your invitation to the band camp.

Winds - Auditions for marching spots are held during band camp, and are based on the music and marching fundamentals you’ll learn for the first show.

When do I report to band camp?
MRD Band Camp begins on Sunday, August 17, 2008. We spend band camp week putting together our first shows, learning the style of the Marching Royal Dukes and auditioning for marching spots. When school begins, you will already be in your dorm room and ready to start the school year.

What is the size of the band and what if I don’t make a spot?
We march approximately 375 members. This includes approximately 250 brass and woodwinds, 50 percussion, 40 flags, 3 drum majors and electric bass players and amp pushers. Based on the auditions during band camp, you will either be assigned a marching position or an alternate's position. We carry 16-25 alternates. Alternates are considered a member of the Marching Royal Dukes, as they perform in all pre-game shows and they play a big part in the success of our program. Alternates have the opportunity to challenge for a marching position during the season. Details regarding challenges are in the MRD Handbook that you will receive at band camp.

When will I hear from you again?
After you have received your acceptance to the university and you have returned your dormitory deposit, you will receive a letter along with a registration form inviting you to be a part of the Marching Royal Dukes! (Make sure that you list band as one of your interests on the JMU application) After you respond to that letter, you will receive information about band camp and moving into your dorm room early. You will also begin receiving our newsletter and music to prepare for band camp. As stated earlier, color guard and percussion members will receive an invitation to the band camp after successful completion of the audition in July.