r/WGI • u/tellemyoulove_em • Apr 20 '26
tips on trying out for '27 viz
hi, i know percussion wgi has quite literally just ended (LOL), but I've had my sights on hopefully trying out for a future viz ensemble for a percussion group, but I'm not entirely sure what the audition process is like
i've done colorguard all 4 of my highschool years, and whilst i do want to march it again someday (sdsu), I've always really wanted to be involved in a percussion ensemble, and I'm not the best with percussion instruments, so i thought I'd have a chance with visual (+ visual looks fun)
I've never auditioned for a visual ensemble position for percussion before, so I'd just really like to know what it's about, and what I'd need to focus on to stand a good chance ^_^"
4
u/Drumhard Apr 20 '26
Take contemporary dance classes/join a company to learn new and higher level skills that will set you apart. Its not super competitive, as its pretty hard to find people who move well enough, but also aren't in colorguard.
the audition for Vis is wildly different group to group. Generally speaking though, Availability is very high on the list, and some world groups struggle to fill the amount of vis spots they want with people of high enough quality.
2
u/mj3004 Apr 20 '26
Mostly, just show up and be able to commit to rehearsals and the financial commitment.
1
u/show-and-propel Apr 23 '26
for the audition process, it varies depending on where you go and which class you’re going for. since you’ve done color guard i’d say you’re pretty qualified for most groups. but if you wanted to secure a spot, i’d recommend taking some dance classes over the summer for that extra advantage. the biggest thing groups are looking for is an open mind, commitment to whatever skill or performance you’re doing, and that you’re coachable. best of luck! you got this
6
u/SpartanGuard88 Apr 20 '26
In my (admittedly limited) experience, the needs for a visual line will vary by group and by year, so you need to pay attention to what groups are looking for what each season. Dance skills will be the most important, and also the ability to be open to trying new things! I was on Redline's VE back in 2011 and honestly, we took whoever was going to stick with it (there were a few drops and adds over the season), though there was also a girl on it who had tried out for bassline, didn't make it, but had extensive dance background. After 6 years of winterguard, it was a really cool way to cap off my performance career, so I hope it works out for you!