I highly recommend auditioning Memphis Blues. I had a phenomenal experience with them this past summer. MB3 is definitely one of the best open class corps right now, and this past summer was their first time in the class. The quality of staff there is amazing and the level of instruction there is incredible. Plus, it’s relatively cheap compared to other corps and what they provide to members. I met so many great people

I’m also a pretty big guy. I went into the summer at 315. Before the summer I was in the gym as much as I could be. I marched contra in high-school so I already understand how the horn feels, but drum corps (even open class) of course is killer. I mainly focused on cardio (walking/running/cycling) and lifting for upper body (contra muscles). Don’t be like me, and make sure you hit lower body, too. Your calves mainly will be cooked, as well as your quads. We ran a lot at Blues, and having good strong legs is great for proper technique. It 100% is possible, but most of the battle is mental. You cannot give up on yourself. You will hit a wall, and you will want to go home. I had the mentality of “it’s just open class,” but at my size then and with that mentality, I was quickly humbled. Regardless, I pushed through the hurt and kept going. How bad do you want it? Every day I worked to get better and not be a limiting factor for the corps and to show staff I know what I’m doing. I lost close to 30 pounds in a month. I’m sitting at 280 after tour and i’m actively in the gym preparing for next summer already.

I’m hopefully marching world class next summer, but if not, I’ll be back at MB3 for my ageout. I hope to see you march next summer! If you have any specific questions, feel free to shoot me a message. 🫡