FAQ
Is there an age requirement to participate?
All members must be at least 14 years old and not over 22 years of age as of April 1, 2023. Students of all ages are welcome, and encouraged, to attend auditions!
When/where are auditions held?
The Empyrean Percussion audition camps will serve as our audition process for this season. The audition dates and locations are as follows:
9/25: James River HS - 10am-6pm (Registration opens at 9am)
10/9: Jefferson Forest HS - 1pm-7pm
10/16: Rock Ridge HS - 10am-6pm
10/30: Rock Ridge HS - 10am-6pm
Keep an eye on social media for our most up to date information!
Do I have to pay to audition?
Nope! In an effort to make Empyrean Percussion as accessible to our community as possible, our audition packet and camps will be free!
I’m not sure that I’ll make the group, should I audition anyway?
Absolutely! You will learn a great deal which will help you in your current performance situation and in future auditions.
What if I’m from out of town, how does the audition process work?
Contact us. We will work with you and try to find the best possible arrangement.
What should I bring with me to auditions?
How often are rehearsals?
Empyrean Percussion rehearses on weekends. The typical times for rehearsals are Fridays: 7 - 10 PM, Saturdays: 9 AM - 9 PM, Sundays: 9 AM - 5 PM. Rehearsals will be held nearly every weekend from December through April, with some exceptions for holidays. Competitions typically begin in middle to late February.
What if I'm involved in other music/after school groups?
Staff members and the directors are aware of the fact that members, especially those in high school, are involved in school music activities and other groups. We understand the importance of our members' commitment to their education, however many people will have to make sacrifices to be a part of Empyrean Percussion, one of which is the sacrifice of time.
Attendance at rehearsal is mandatory. It is paramount that you communicate potential conflicts and time needs to the admin and staff as soon as possible so that we can plan accordingly. Time management of your family, school, work, and social schedules need to allow you to attend every rehearsal.
Where are rehearsals held?
Empyrean Percussion rehearsals are held at several different locations throughout the season in both the Northern Virginia and Richmond areas. A detailed rehearsal schedule with locations will be made available prior to the start of each season.
How much does it cost to participate?
The tuition for the 2022/2023 season will be $1200, paid with a monthly payment from October-March (payment plans available). This applies to every facet of your experience including instruction, uniform, the trip to Dayton, and more.
What if I can’t afford that?
Our admin team will be working to help provide fundraising opportunities throughout the season and we strongly encourage sponsorship from family, friends and outside sources. If you have concerns, reach out to us and we'll try to come up with a plan.
All members must be at least 14 years old and not over 22 years of age as of April 1, 2023. Students of all ages are welcome, and encouraged, to attend auditions!
When/where are auditions held?
The Empyrean Percussion audition camps will serve as our audition process for this season. The audition dates and locations are as follows:
9/25: James River HS - 10am-6pm (Registration opens at 9am)
10/9: Jefferson Forest HS - 1pm-7pm
10/16: Rock Ridge HS - 10am-6pm
10/30: Rock Ridge HS - 10am-6pm
Keep an eye on social media for our most up to date information!
Do I have to pay to audition?
Nope! In an effort to make Empyrean Percussion as accessible to our community as possible, our audition packet and camps will be free!
I’m not sure that I’ll make the group, should I audition anyway?
Absolutely! You will learn a great deal which will help you in your current performance situation and in future auditions.
What if I’m from out of town, how does the audition process work?
Contact us. We will work with you and try to find the best possible arrangement.
What should I bring with me to auditions?
- Sticks/mallets and a practice pad if you have one.
- Athletic clothes (shorts, track pants, running shoes, etc.)
- Water bottle, light snacks, packed lunch or money to purchase lunch during the break.
- Sunscreen, sunglasses and other items should we be outside (weather permitting).
- Printed audition packet, preferably in a binder of some type.
- A positive attitude ready to learn and have fun!
How often are rehearsals?
Empyrean Percussion rehearses on weekends. The typical times for rehearsals are Fridays: 7 - 10 PM, Saturdays: 9 AM - 9 PM, Sundays: 9 AM - 5 PM. Rehearsals will be held nearly every weekend from December through April, with some exceptions for holidays. Competitions typically begin in middle to late February.
What if I'm involved in other music/after school groups?
Staff members and the directors are aware of the fact that members, especially those in high school, are involved in school music activities and other groups. We understand the importance of our members' commitment to their education, however many people will have to make sacrifices to be a part of Empyrean Percussion, one of which is the sacrifice of time.
Attendance at rehearsal is mandatory. It is paramount that you communicate potential conflicts and time needs to the admin and staff as soon as possible so that we can plan accordingly. Time management of your family, school, work, and social schedules need to allow you to attend every rehearsal.
Where are rehearsals held?
Empyrean Percussion rehearsals are held at several different locations throughout the season in both the Northern Virginia and Richmond areas. A detailed rehearsal schedule with locations will be made available prior to the start of each season.
How much does it cost to participate?
The tuition for the 2022/2023 season will be $1200, paid with a monthly payment from October-March (payment plans available). This applies to every facet of your experience including instruction, uniform, the trip to Dayton, and more.
What if I can’t afford that?
Our admin team will be working to help provide fundraising opportunities throughout the season and we strongly encourage sponsorship from family, friends and outside sources. If you have concerns, reach out to us and we'll try to come up with a plan.
