Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Marching Southerners Academy?
The 2020 Marching Southerners Academy will be held on Saturday, May 9th.
How do I check-in?
Check-in will be held in the Mason Hall lobby at 8:00-8:30 AM. There will be signs around campus to help you find Mason Hall as well as signs and staff in Mason Hall will help you find registration. If you have previously paid for the event, all you will need to do is give your name to the registration table to receive your wrist band and shirt. If you have not previously paid, you may pay in cash or card for entry into the camp (no personal checks will be accepted).
Is this part of the JSU Drumline auditions?
This is an independent event and does not count as auditions for the JSU Drumline; however, this can offer valuable information that can help ready you for auditions. For JSU Drumline audition dates please follow this link. (to be released)
Do I have to be a current drum major to participate?
This camp is designed for both current and aspiring drum majors. If you are looking to improve your technique and leadership skills as a current drum major, or if you are wanting to learn the basics and what to expect for future auditions, Marching Southerners Academy is for you. These are skills that can make you a better drum major or section leader of your band.
What do I need to bring?
The music and accompanying MP3s will be available on the website on April 1st, please print the music and bring it with you. Both drum major and percussion attendees will need to bring a wire stand and a pencil, drum major attendees will also need a highlighter.
My school uses a different conducting technique than JSU, can I use my schools technique or do I have to use JSUs at this camp?
Although we will be teaching using JSUs technique, you are free to use your schools technique. You will receive just as much information and feedback as the students using JSUs technique.
What is included in the cost?
You will receive a Marching Southerners Academy t-shirt (guaranteed if registered by April 23rd), a Marching Southerners luggage tag, lunch, a chance to win family passes for a JSU home game and an opportunity to conduct the Marching Southerners in performance (drum major attendees), a chance to win family passes for a JSU home game and an opportunity to drum with the Marching Southerners drum line during a game (percussion attendees), and a world class education from JSU faculty and Marching Southerners leadership.
What should I wear?
Khaki Shorts, tennis shoes, and comfortable t-shirt. We will be wearing the Marching Southerners Academy t-shirts for the show and tell performance.
Is the show and tell free?
There is no cost for your friends and family to attend the show and tell.
Can my parents attend?
Your parents are welcome to attend the show and tell performance at the end of the day. There are plenty of wonderful sites and activities for your family to experience while you are at the Marching Southerners Academy:
-Cherokee RockVillage
-Java Jolt Coffee Shop
-Robert TrentJones Golf Trail, Silver Lakes
-Germania Springs Park/Dog Park
ABOUT JSU BANDS
A nationally known entity of Jacksonville State University, the Marching Southerners have been defining the future of marching band for over SIXTY YEARS.
Comprised of students from all over the country, the Southerners perform for thousands each season - sending chills up the spine and tears down the face.
With class and excellence, the Southerners extend "The friendliest campus in the South" wherever they go, both on the field and off.
