Events Calendar
SCV26 Drum Major Video Audition
September 15 - November 22
$50.00
Candidates hoping to be considered as a Santa Clara Vanguard Drum Major should exemplify excellence in both conducting and leadership. In 2026, we anticipate one position available to join our returning third-year head drum major and two second-year drum majors.
The selection process will happen over the course of several rounds:
Round One – Open to All (Deadline 11/22/25, 11:59pm EST):
All Round One participants are required to submit this Google Form prior to the deadline in order to be considered for a Drum Major position. We typically have lots of applicants, so early submission is absolutely appreciated. In this form, you will be asked to complete the following:
1. Resumé – Please clearly include any pertinent marching and/or leadership experience.
2. Cover Letter – In one to two pages, tell us about who you are and specifically articulate your qualifications and motivations for this position. Include a significant section that discusses your ability to fit into an already existing outstanding leadership team.
3. Two References for SCV to contact for Letters of Recommendation
4. Video – Record and upload (unlisted) to YouTube one video of approximately 5-6 minutes in length including the following content:
- Introduction – Share with us your marching experience and why you would like to be a Drum Major for the Santa Clara Vanguard! (Suggested 2 minutes)
- Conducting – Three 60-90 second samples of the following conducting abilities: One example that showcases your technique and fundamental abilities, one more fast-paced, aggressive piece of music (think drum corps closer), and one more lyrical example (think drum corps ballad). Be sure to capture your full body and face in this video. Audio samples should be clearly audible. Please proof this video for quality before submission – videos not meeting this criteria will be automatically dismissed.
Round Two – Invitation Only:
All Round One participants will receive an email by 12/5/25 informing them of their status and if they will be moving on to the callback camp in Dallas, TX on December 19-21, 2025. Applicants should also be prepared to attend all future camp dates: January 23-25, February 20-22, March 27-29, April 24-26.
Round Three – Pending Camp Experience:
Pending the camp experience, the Corps Director and Caption Heads may hold individual finalist interviews of approximately 30-45 minutes via Zoom in late December. These will be scheduled individually.
If you have any questions, please contact us at auditions@scvanguard.org.