The Mandarins are looking forward to another successful drum corps season in 2008. Please contact the appropriate caption head for more information.

Welcome

Welcome to the Mandarins. We recently celebrated our 40th anniversary, and are looking forward to another 40 years of success. We are glad you have chosen to take a look at our program.

Our Program

In 2008, the Mandarins will have a full summer schedule planned. For the first time, the corps will have a one week “training camp”, this session will start in mid-June, coinciding with the conclusion of the local high school year (please see our E-calendar here).

During June and early July we have extended weekend trips (Fri. - Mon.) to shows throughout the west coast. Our 2008 DCI tour will include approximately 4 weeks on the road, with appearances at all major regionals, as well as other DCI shows on the way to the DCI Championships in Indianapolis, IN. All together, the corps will be on the road for about 6 – 7 weeks during the 2008 season.

Providing a quality experience both on and off the field is priority with the Mandarins. Last season, with 100 members, the corps traveled in four, 56 passenger busses. This provided for a comfortable and healthy travel environment. The food provided by the corps is among the best in the activity, just ask the corps members! Also, please note that your tour fees also include a flight back to Sacramento from Indianapolis, as we do not bus home after the season.

Auditions for the 2008 Season

In 2008, we are looking to significantly increase the size of our brass line and also plan on increasing the size of the color guard proportionally; we of course would like to see all percussionists as well.

Auditions for the 2008 season will begin in December 2007. While previous marching and musical experience is valuable, the willingness to work hard and be part of a team are the most important attributes that we are looking for. We encourage everyone who has an interest in the Mandarins to come out to audition.

Those interested in auditioning for the 2008 Mandarins should make arrangements to attend a camp or rehearsal; keep checking the Mandarins web site for updated information regarding camp and rehearsal locations. In the meantime, specific questions can be directed to our Caption Heads:

For prospective members from out of the immediate area, we will allow you to send us a taped audition (VHS or DVD). However, priority will be given to those attending rehearsals and camps. For detailed information as to what needs to be submitted on the tape, please contact the appropriate caption head.
If there are questions of a more general nature, or you wish to be put on our email announcement list (which will include updated audition information as it becomes available), please contact
Ron Munekawa, Staff Coordinator.

Thank you for your interest in the Mandarins, and we hope to see you at auditions!

How do I sign up for Camp?

• Early registration for camp is highly encouraged so the boosters can provide adequately for the meals. If you know you are attending, sign up now by emailing the caption head of the section you wish to audition. Include your name, email address, school, instrument of your choice, and musical or performance experience. Keep it simple.
• Check in at the beginning of camp and provide the $25 camp fee. This covers all the instruction for the weekend, lunch and dinner on Saturday and lunch on Sunday. You may still register at the camp if you don't register online.
• If you have already joined and are a current member, you do not need to pay the $25 camp fee.
• IMPORTANT!!! If you have been offered a position in the Corps and wish to join the Mandarins to secure your spot, bring the following to camp/rehearsal and complete the following forms:
  
  • Your completed 3 page Application Form and Permission Slip/Medical Release, with appropriate signatures;
  • Your original proof of date of birth – driver’s license, passport, or original, certified birth certificate (no photocopies!)*;
  • Your initial payment (Membership Dues, Uniform Fee, and Marching Shoe Fee).
  • *If you marched with us in 2003 - 2007, we already have seen your proof of date of birth and do not need to see it again! Once you are a member, you will not be charged the $25 camp fee. 2008 Membership packets (including the updated Member Handbook and application forms) will be available at the pre-audition clinics, all camps and rehearsals, and can also be downloaded here. If you have any questions about the application process or fees, contact our Personnel Manager, Jim Tashima.

What Do I Need to Bring to Camp?

• A positive attitude and willingness to learn.
• All musicians: three ring binder with plastic sleeves and a pencil.
• Please see the Audition Music and Caption Instructions page for detailed information.
• Change of clothes for the weekend. Plan to dress in layers. It will be warm in the gym. Since we are in California, where the climate is good, we will also likely be outside, so you will need to have warm clothes for that as well.
• Comfortable marching shoes.
• Plastic drinking cup (note: all meals will be provided for the entire weekend).
  • For overnight camps only:
    • Sleeping bag, air mattress (optional), pillow.
    • Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, towel, etc.
    • Shower shoes or slippers.

What Are You Looking For When I Audition?

Auditions will give the staff an idea of your music, marching, movement, and equipment handling skills. Think of your first rehearsal as a chair placement for an honor band rather than an "audition."

We will also be looking at several other factors, including:

• Positive attitude.
• Work ethic.
• Commitment to effort.
• Ability to focus and listen to directions.
• Ability to learn exercises.
• Ability to process information and instruction and apply it to exercises.
• Ability to handle constructive criticism in a positive manner.

In addition to an audition in a rehearsal setting, each prospective member will also be interviewed by the appropriate caption head.

Our marching member Code of Conduct can be found here. This will give you an idea of our organization’s expectation for its members.

Oh yes, in case you think we forgot to mention this: enjoy yourself! Stay positive and don't lose sight of your goals and objectives. You are here because you enjoy doing this, and the staff does recognize your effort in coming to be here with us.

Future 2008 Camp Dates:

Note: December through February camps will not be overnight camps. Corps members will be responsible for securing their own lodging. Meals will be provided.

Commitment, dedication, and teamwork are the cornerstones of our organization. The Mandarins are rich in over 40 years of tradition and pride. We encourage your participation, and look forward to seeing you soon.