Auditions
Auditions for the Marching Southerners 20J line are held during band camp. The auditions will consist of a musical portion, testing your musical ability on the 20J, and a marching portion, testing your ability to march with the 20J. The musical selections for tryouts will be selected by the leadership team during band camp, and the marching portion will be a series of basic marching commands facilitated by the section leaders. Also, attitude and work ethic are highly evaluated during this process and will not be neglected when considering your spot on the line. Need more info on auditions? Check out the Audition page on the Marching Southerners' website.
What You Need
THE HORN
The JSU Band Department has a collection of Conn 20Js that are used for marching. Every member will check out a horn, consisting of a body and a bell. If you somehow have your own 20J, you are welcome to use it, but keep in mind these horns go through a lot during the season.
|
MOUTHPIECE
The type of mouth piece you use is up to you. We recommend either a Perantucci or Helleberg mouth piece. We do not allow Bach 18-24AW’s. If this is the mouth piece you use, we suggest upgrading. Try to avoid using a mouth piece used for your concert horn, if you have one. Mouth pieces will go through a lot of wear and tear during the season.
|
STRAP
In order to hold a Conn 20J, we use old-style snare straps and a carabiner. Straps will be provided by the section leaders for you to purchase during band camp. We do not usually supply carabiners, yet they can be found very easily for very cheap. If you want to purchase your own strap before band camp, check your local music store. If near the Jacksonville area, we suggest Gadsden Music.
|
Be Prepared
MORE THAN JUST A TUBA
Marching 20J is more than just marching a tuba. This horn requires a lot more strength and control to maneuver and play than a sousaphone. It might take a while for rookies to get used to the horn. Make sure you are in decent shape to endure marching the horn in the crazy Alabama weather. This horn is no joke.
MORE THAN JUST A SECTION
It takes a specific type of individual to be committed to the enigma that is tuba, and it's more than just the horn that makes us stand out as a section. Through years of embracing the odd, and a duty and loyalty to excelling our standards, the 20Js of Jax State have created a tradition of getting business done on and off the field. The 20Js are known across the nation. No matter what age or year you march, you are expected to claim the upmost responsibility and dedication to not just the section, but also the Marching Southerners. Actively listen. Thrive off discipline. Be kind. And never be afraid to be yourself. We always look forward to meeting new personalities and flavors to contribute to the section. After all, that's what makes us unique. BLOW 20J.