Drumline Auditions

General Audition Material

Please use the materials below to prepare for the audition.

• Audition Guidelines
• Exercise Packet Notation Key

Additional Resources

We highly recommend the following resources as an additional practice tool:

• Snare Science Practice Pad
• Basic Exercises (battery and pit)
• Keyboard Basics

Many past cadences are available on Dr. Fambrough's website.

General Information

How do I register to audition for the UAB Drumline?

Email Dr. Gene Fambrough, Percussion Coordinator, at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. stating your intent to audition. Simply provide your name, phone number, mailing address, and UAB admissions status (or Jefferson State if applicable). Also, briefly discuss your audition intentions regarding instrument choice and willingness to play other instruments within the percussion ensemble.

What do I bring?

Potential members should bring appropriate playing implements—-snare drum sticks, quad mallets/sticks, bass drum mallets, and/or keyboard mallets. Additionally, because the number of those auditioning could exceed the number of instruments owned by UAB, we ask current High School students auditioning for snare drum and/or quad drums to please bring your own instruments if possible. It is not necessary to bring bass drums, field cymbals, or keyboard instruments. You must also bring some type of earplugs/hearing protection for all ensemble rehearsals.

How will I be evaluated during the audition process?

Initial evaluations take place by video auditions, based on the exercises provided in the updated exercise packet, with continued evaluation occurring on both call back rehearsals held on campus. Final placements of the ensemble will be announced mid-June.

What will I be asked to play during the audition?

You are urged to familiarize yourself with the music materials found in the audition packet. So that potential members’ reading and quickness in learning can be evaluated, additional materials will be handed out on the day of auditions and utilized during the evaluation process as well.

Other questions

If you should have any other questions or concerns regarding UAB Drumline auditions, please do not hesitate to contact Dr. Fambrough at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..