<p>Is it reasonably accessible for a student who was a fairly celebrated HS snare drummer, or is it as naive as a non-recruited athlete saying "I was a pretty good football player in HS; I think I'll go to USC and play football there"? The combination of a top academic school with a top band and drumline is enticing to my S, but if making it onto that drumline is a longshot, he should consider that before planning to go 2,500 miles to college.</p>
<p>If you can play and you embrace the band culture completely, you should be fine. I know plenty of people on the band, including section leader.</p>
<p>Also, most band members are so drunk during field performances no one should notice.</p>
<p>Practice a lot and don’t take what you know for granted. And if you don’t make it, I suggest you stick around, being in the drumline is a lot of fun, and people who quit when they don’t make their chosen instrument are definitely missing out.</p>
<p>Oh, and I wouldn’t say that most members are drunk on the field.</p>
<p>Be aware that the USC band is unique and it definitely a different experience from whatever high school band your son might come from. If you’ve got more specific questions, feel free to send me a private message.</p>
<p>Yes they truly are mostly drunk</p>
<p>I know a guy with no band experience who made band there; He really practiced marching…???..I believe he plays the trumpet.</p>
<p>The USC band seems to welcome new members; they made a big sales pitch during my daughter’s scholarship weekend. I would ask the admissions department for a contact in the band itself-- I’ll bet they’ll be happy to answer all your questions.</p>
<p>Anyone can “play” trumpet. Drummers have to audition. If you check the website, you can find the email for the recruitment manager I believe.</p>
<p>GAdad,
Check on YouTube for the USC drum line videos. If your son is musical he should be able to tell by their performances where he stands in comparison to those drummers featured.</p>