Frequently Asked Questions

· How much does it cost to perform with Thunder?
· Where do the kids live during the summer tour?
· What and where do I eat while at a Thunder weekend camp?
· How much does the corps travel during the summer tour?
· Are there chaperones that travel with the corps during the summer tour?
· What are the advantages of touring with a drum and bugle corps?
· I am a band director. Why should I encourage my students to march in Thunder?
· What if I have a conflict for attending a rehearsal camp?
· Will I get picked up if I fly in or take a bus?
· Are my parents invited to camps?

Q: How much does it cost to perform with Thunder?

A: A one time $50 registration for new members is required to reserve an audition spot. Each camp has a small $40 to offset the costs of meals and instruction. The cost for the summer tour is $995.
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Q: Where do the kids live during the summer tour?

A: The corps uses school gyms as its housing facilities when on the road and during camps. The members sleep on sleeping bags, blow-up mattresses, etc. Also, the boys sleep on one half of the gym while the girls sleep on the other half.
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Q: What and where do I eat while at a Thunder weekend camp?

A: Food is provided by the corps for your entire weekend. Our experienced volunteers will prepare a snack Friday evening, three meals and a snack on Saturday and breakfast on Sunday. We invite your parents to volunteer and share some of your home meal ideas.
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Q: How much does the corps travel during the summer tour?

A: The summer schedule shows each of the cities in which Thunder performs. On non-show days, The corps typically rehearses at schools between the performance cities or, if it is lucky, at the performance site for the following evening.
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Q: Are there chaperones that travel with the corps during the summer tour?

A: The touring staff comprises approximately 8 instructors, 4 administrative staff, and 4-5 volunteer staff. In our 3 previous seasons, smaller staffs have been able to provide for all of the needs of the corps members. With an even larger touring staff this season, we expect to provide the same level of service to the members.
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Q: What are the advantages of touring with a drum and bugle corps?

A: In addition to the member learning a lot about his/her instrument and taking that knowledge with them throughout his/her performing and teaching career, no other youth activity provides the opportunity to meet new friends from around the world. No other activity allows members to perform in front of thousands of enthusiastic fans who are there TO SEE THEM, not the football team! No other activity develops the athleticism, self-reliance, perseverance, attention to detail, goal setting skills, and "chops" of the member to the degree of that developed in drum corps. In fact, some members have developed their musical "chops" so well that they earned full scholarships to college!
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Q: I am a band director. Why should I encourage my students to march in Thunder?

A: Students who participate with Thunder Drum and Bugle Corps gain invaluable experience, in terms of musicianship, maturity, and physical fitness, these students return to school in the fall with a much higher degree of self-confidence, skill, and dedication to excellence. Our program and staff are focused on helping all members reach their highest potential.
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Q: What if I have a conflict for attending a rehearsal camp?

A: Rehearsals and camps are extremely important for our individuals and to the Corps in general. We have only a limited amount of time to learn the music and drill, and to fine-tune our performance before we "hit the road" to compete. That being said, we do realize the time conflicts will occur. School and Band commitments always come first. We only ask that you contact your Caption Head at least two week in advance.
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Q: Will I get picked up if I fly in or take a bus?

A: Absolutely! We will make arrangements to get you from the Spokane Internation Airport or the Greyhound Bus Station. You will have to send an email of your flight number, airline and arrival time to travel@spokanethunder.org two weeks in advance. It is very important this information so we can plan and make arrangements to pick you up!
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Q: Are my parents invited to camps?

A: Absolutely! Parents are encouraged to attend every camp. Thunder administrators and other volunteer parents will be in attendance at all camps to answer questions. We will always hold a special parent orientation after the member orientation on the audition day. There are many volunteer positions available for parents to fill! Become a part of the THUNDER family.
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