Feature Twirler Auditions

The UToledo Department of Music invites interested candidates to audition for the Rocket Marching Band Feature Twirler positions. Feature Twirlers perform with the RMB at all home football games, select away games, parades, and possible postseason bowl opportunities. The band accepts 1-3 twirlers that meet the audition criteria. The number of twirlers selected depends on the proximity of the candidates' audition scores.

2024 Audition information

First, an audition video and application must be submitted by Monday, March 18. Invitation for in-person auditions will be extended by Saturday, March 23. In-person auditions will take place Saturday, April 20, at the UToledo Rec Center. Auditions begin at 10:30 a.m. The gym will open 30 minutes prior to auditions for warm-up. Wear a baton costume with performance hair and makeup. Read below for audition requirements.

Audition Requirements

Step 1 - Submit Info Form & Audition Video by March 18

To audition as a Feature Twirler, register by filling out the information form at the link below.
Audition Information Form:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1YJmKY5HMIL1zPBBy6VWlRT1zjOMW5fXi/copy

Post a 5-minute unlisted YouTube video featuring yourself twirling. It is recommended to demonstrate the required skills throughout the video.

Email the completed form and your video link to our UToledo Twirling Coordinator, Erin Fabiilli, by March 18, 2023: efabiilli@gmail.com

Step 2 - audition with the following items on April 20:

Freestyle Routine

No more than three (3) minutes
May include any number of batons
No props or other novelty items permitted
Bodywork and gymnastics as well as floor coverage are encouraged
Choreograph the routine to music of your choice. UT feature twirlers are expected to choreograph routines to match the music.

Down-field Routine to University of Toledo fight song

Routine should start at one end of the gym and finish at the other, replicating how you would move down the field during a pregame performance.
Incorporate:
- Big moving tricks in addition to low flips and stationary tricks
- Variety of leaps and other bodywork
- Marching is optional and should not be more than one count of 8
Fight song version for auditions will be sent via email after submission of the Audition Information Form.

45-60 Second Improvisational Routine

We will play a music recording and allow two (2) minutes to listen to it prior to performing the routine.
The routine must be performed using one (1) baton and should include tricks from the required list.

Required Tricks (should be shown at least once in the three (3) routines):

- 4 spin vertical/3 spin horizontal
- Variety of catches
- Low contact/flip material
- Toss double leap
- Double illusion
- Toss cartwheel or toss walkover
- Rolls (back neck rolls, long arm roll, elbow pops, fujimis)
- Strong 2-baton skills (variety in types of tosses)
- Strong 3-baton skills (high toss with a variety of tricks underneath, box, stacks)
- Strong bodywork (leg holds, kicks, laybacks, leaps, jumps)

Panel Interview

Topics of discussion may include goals and ambitions as a UToledo student, twirling accomplishments and experience, dedication and work ethic, ability and desire to represent UToledo at national twirling competitions if selected as a feature twirler, and other relevant issues.

Announcement

Candidates will be contacted with the results by phone within one (1) week of the audition. We plan to offer two (2) positions but reserve the right to alter this based upon the talent presented and vision for the band. The directors also reserve the right to not name a feature twirler if no applicants meet the criteria.

What Qualities Do We Look For?

We seek twirlers with well-developed technique who can adapt their skills to a variety of musical styles and perform their routines within the rhythmic foundation of music. We also look for members who are excited to be part of rehearsals and performances, a willingness to be flexible as needs change, and possess a strong sense of professionalism while on and off the field. We continue to follow the expectations of the Rocket Marching Band along with additional responsibilities the Feature Twirler position entails. As we do not field a "twirling line" like some college bands, our positions are more selective in scope. Being a Feature Twirler for the University of Toledo is a privilege, so twirlers must be willing to participate/perform in events outside the football season.

majorette twirling on football field QUESTIONS?