What factors determine whether or not I make the Madison Scouts?
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•The most important aspect of being a Madison Scout is a great attitude. Members must be positive, respectful, and always put the group first.
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•No corps members start the season with all the knowledge and ability to be successful. It is a willingness and capacity to improve that distinguishes the good from the great.
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•Prospective members must demonstrate noted talent applicable to the section for which they audition.
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•During your audition you will be asked to list any conflicts you have with winter camps and the summer season. Your availability will not only determine whether or not you are selected as a member, but will be part of your contract to which you will be expected to adhere.
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•You will likewise be asked how and when you intend to pay your member dues for the 2009 season.
What should I prepare for my audition?
Audition materials will be posted on this web site by October 2008 as well audition locations and times. We expect to be holding auditions in Texas and Wisconsin and potentially two additional locations.
Can I make the corps with no prior experience?
Yes, the Madison Scouts are holding auditions to fill 150 positions. Every individual, whether new to the corps or a member, must audition using the same criteria and each has a chance to make the Scouts. Note that talent is only one of the five components on which you will be evaluated.
If I can attend the winter camps, but none of the auditions, could I send a video audition?
Under certain circumstances we would allow you to submit a video audition along with the $75 audition fee. However, we always give first priority to prospective members who audition in person since making the Scouts is not based on talent alone. If this is your only option, contact the corps director Dann Petersen to gain approval.
If I have auditioned for the Scouts in the past, do I need to complete the application again?
Yes, due to changes in our application or with your experiences you must complete a new 2009 member application. We want to ensure all your information is current.
How much does it cost to audition?
Prospective members pay a $75 audition fee.
How should I pay the audition fee?
There are two ways to pay the audition fee, check or credit card. If paying by check, make it out to the Madison Scouts and send it to the corps office. Please write ‘audition fee’ in the memo. If paying by credit card, PAY ONLINE >
How much are member dues?
In 2008, member dues start at $2000 for the first year and decrease incrementally every subsequent year as noted below. The 2009 dues have not been determined yet, but you can expect them to be the same or perhaps a small increase.
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Year 1 = $2000 (1st year members who fully pay their dues by December 31, 2008 will receive a $100 discount)
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Year 2 = $1800
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Year 3 = $1600
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Year 4 = $1550
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Year 5 = $1500
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Year 6 = $1450
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Year 7 = $1400
What is included with my dues?
Your dues will cover your housing for winter camps, everyday rehearsals and the entire summer tour. Additionally, dues cover food anytime you are housed with the corps. Dues also cover the education you will receive from our world-class staff. You will gain knowledge of your specific instrument or equipment, a performance mentality and invaluable life skills. The experience of marching with the Madison Scouts will change the rest of your life; it is truly priceless.
Are there ways to reduce my dues?
Yes, we offer two fundraisers as part of your membership with the corps. A percentage of the money you raise will be directly applied to your dues.
If I owe money to another corps, can I still join the Madison Scouts?
No, in cooperation with other corps, you will not be eligible to join the Scouts until your outstanding obligations has been fulfilled.
Do I need an e-mail?
It is crucial that you provide & maintain an e-mail address that you frequently access. All primary corps communications (camps, materials, lessons) are transmitted through e-mail.
How do I get to and from auditions and winter camps?
While you are responsible for arranging transportation to and from auditions and winter camps, we will help facilitate the process.
If you are not able to drive yourself or find a ride with someone else you should first and foremost check for others in your area on the Scouts Forum.
If, after checking the forum, you decide you will fly you will have four primary options for airports: Dane County Regional Airport in Madison, Milwaukee’s Mitchell Field, Chicago Midway or Chicago O’Hare. While we can arrange to pick you up from the Dane County Regional Airport in Madison, we will not shuttle you from either the Milwaukee or the Chicago airports.
From the Milwaukee’s Mitchell Field you can take the Badger Bus (around $20) that goes from Milwaukee’s Mitchell Field to Madison. Depart at the Madison Depot on the corner of S. Bedford & West Washington. The corps can arrange to pick you up from there.
From Midway or O’Hare, you can take the Van Galder Bus (around $28) to Madison and get off at the Dutch Mill Park & Ride. The corps can arrange to pick you up from there.
To arrange a pickup from the Dane County Airport, the Madison Depot, or the Dutch Mill Park & Ride please fill out the Travel Form 2008-v8.doc and email it to travel@madisonscouts.org
