We are asked many questions through out the year on many given topics. We have included just a few of the most common questions.
Q: What is Breach of Silence?
A: Breach of Silence is an audition only independent indoor percussion ensemble. Anyone ages 11-22 can audition for a spot in BOS. Each year auditions will take place in mid November and at that time, you are encouraged to audition for the instrument that most suits your abilities.
Q: Will my high school program interfere with B.O.S.?
A: We encourage all prospective members to participate in their high school programs and make those programs priority. If your high school offers an indoor percussion program then you are expected to consider this before auditioning for B.O.S. We are also sensitive to high school programs that participate in ISSMA concert band and solo and ensemble contests, and you are expected to attend all high school functions, and we will help work around those for you.
Q: How much are fees?
A: Fees are based on what the season will consist of and where finals will be held. This year we decided to do a WGI and IPA tour which consisted of contests all over Indiana as well as trips to Dayton. The fees this season will be approximately $350. This includes everything but a tour jacket, lodging, and food on some trips. Since B.O.S. owns all of our equipment and has our own practice facility, we have fees that meet the ensemble's needs.
Q: So you offer fundraisers?
A: We will offer a couple different fundraisers during the season which help drive down fees. Please do not rely totally on fundraisers due to the nature of fundraising.
Q: Will B.O.S. interfere with extra curricular activities?
A: We will typically rehearse 1 night a week and do camps on Saturdays. If this will not be totally possible, then it is wise you do not audition for the ensemble.
Q: Can my parents help out with the ensemble?
A: We encourage all members to get their parents involved with the B.O.S. support group. This group helps get us off and on the floor at all shows, help sew uniforms and build props as well as paint. We love our parents organization and without them we would not be possible.
Q: How can I get a ride to practice?
A: We have members coming from all over North Central Indiana. Getting a ride once you make the ensemble is usually not a problem. In the event that you make the ensemble and no one is coming from your area, you are still responsible for getting to and from practice.
Q: What is the ensemble size?
A: Breach of Silence has access to a complete battery of 4 snares, 2 tenors, 5 basses and 5 pair of cymbals. We also own a complete front ensemble of 4 marimbas, 2 vibes, 2 xylophones and an entire set of auxiliary equipment. We have enough instruments to field an ensemble of 35+.
Q: What grips does the ensemble use?
A: The snare line plays traditional grip. The keyboards use Stevens and the Burton grip. If you are not familiar with these techniques, they will be explained at the first audition camp.
Q: Where will B.O.S. rehearse?
A: We will rehearse primarily at Taylor High School in Kokomo, IN
Q: How do I sign up?
A: Look for audition posters in your schools or community, or email us!
If you have any specific questions not answered here, please email Chrisneuhauser@sbcglobal.net
