The cost to participate in Crown auditions starts with a $175 non-refundable registration fee, which provides access to all audition materials, educational resources, and includes the option to submit a video audition. While video submissions are accepted, we strongly encourage all auditioning members to attend an in-person camp to get the full experience and receive immediate, hands-on feedback from our staff. There is an additional $195 fee per camp, which covers housing, instruction, meals, and other camp-related expenses. Veteran members (Crown members who have completed at least one full season) are not required to pay the registration fee; this discount should apply automatically in your CrownPORTAL account. If it does not, please contact Allison Combs at allison@carolinacrown.org.

DCI sanctions two classes of drum corps participation in North America – World Class and Open Class. Carolina Crown is a member of DCI’s World Class. World Class corps, like Crown, generally have older, more experienced students and tend to achieve levels of excellence commensurate with the experience and skill levels of the students and their instructional staff.

Drum Corps International's age limit is 21 years of age with one exception: Corps members who turn 22 on or after June 1 are eligible to march during that year.

Crown allows anyone between the ages of 14 - 21 to audition. However, it is rare for performers younger than 16 to be contracted. If you feel you’re ready to Wear the Crown, we invite you to join us at an audition camp.

We offer a video audition option for those who are unable to make an audition camp in person. That said, we strongly encourage you to attend a live audition camp if you can! There is a $95 fee to audition by video.

All previous members of Carolina Crown are required to participate in the audition process for the new season. No former member is guaranteed a spot for this season, but must continue to earn a place amongst the corps by ensuring that they maintain the level of excellence Crown demands. Veteran members of the corps are eligible for free registration for the program and are not required to pay the $175 audition fee. Your CrownPORTAL account will automatically apply your vet discount when you submit your application. If it does not, please contact Allison Combs, allison@carolinacrown.org, for assistance.

Each year, we require all returning members to go through the audition process just the same as someone who is brand new to Carolina Crown.

So, all spots are open!

Yes, we are accepting Drum Major applications. You may submit a video audition, but it is highly recommended that you plan to attend November Camp from November 20-22 in Charlotte, NC.

As is stated at the time of payment, the registration fee is non-refundable since it provides access to all audition materials. We apologize for any inconvenience.

Auditioning by video is open to those unable to attend one of the audition camps. To audition by video, you’ll need to register to submit a video audition within your CrownPORTAL account beginning October 1.

There is a $95 fee to audition by video. Your video will be evaluated by staff, and you’ll receive information about your standing within 2 weeks of submitting.

If it has been more than two weeks since you submitted and you have received no feedback, please reach out to allison@carolinacrown.org

As you can imagine, the costs to operate and produce a world-class drum corps such as Crown are enormous! Much of our costs include food, equipment, vehicles, show design, instructional staff, housing, fuel and more. Tuition and fees paid by members of Carolina Crown only account for a fraction of the costs associated with operating the summer tour. Tuition for 2027 is TBD.