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.

2025 Audition information

First, an audition video and application must be submitted by Sunday, March 16. In-person auditions will take place Sunday, April 13, at the Savage Arena on the UToledo Main Campus. The arena will open 30 minutes prior to auditions for warm-up. Wear a baton costume with performance hair and makeup. Read below for full audition requirements.

Audition Requirements

Step 1 - Submit Info Form & Audition Video by March 16

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 an unlisted YouTube video, 3 minute maximum, of a freestyle routine. This video must be a one time performance of your routine, no cuts or edits. This routine should include 1 baton and multiple batons. No props or novelty items are permitted. Choreograph the routine to music of your choice. UT feature twirlers are expected to choreograph routines to match the music. This routine should contain high level baton skills, bodywork, and showmanship that displays the candidate as a feature twirler. This video will be used to advance candidates onto the live audition and it will be reviewed again and scored by the panel of judges during live auditions.

Email the completed form and your video link to our UToledo Twirling Coordinator, Erin Fabiilli, by March 16, 2025: efabiilli@gmail.com

Step 2 - audition with the following items on April 13:

Down-field Routine to University of Toledo fight song

This routine should replicate how you would move down the field during a pregame performance.
The routine should start at one end of the gym and move to the other end in the first ten counts of 8 of the song.
Then at the repeat of the chorus (:34), move back to the center of the gym in four counts of 8.
Finish the remainder of the song, about five counts of 8, twirling in place in the center.
Incorporate:

A toss cartwheel or toss walkover
Toss double leap
Variety of leaps and other bodywork
Variety of catches and low contact work.
Marching is optional and should not be more than one count of 8.

The version used at auditions can be found on YouTube. University of Toledo Fight Song- "U of Toledo"

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. The routine must include:

Back neck rolls or fujimis
A toss with an illusion variety (i.e. one spin crossover illusion, double illusion, kick illusion)

Rudiment Round

After all candidates have completed the individual portion, they will come into the gym together for the rudiment round. Candidates should know and be proficient in the performance of the following rudiments that are scored on the basis of correct technique and execution.

4 spin vertical
3 spin horizontal
Double illusion
One spin crossover illusion
Toss backhand(reverse toss in left hand) crossover illusion
3 elbow pops catch back hand
2 baton: Opposite releases-Wind up Left hand then Right hand, release L baton low, then R baton high, catch the 1st baton in your RH, flip R to L blind, then catch 2nd baton in your RH
2 baton: High toss/low 1-spin-both tosses in right hand with thumb toss
3 baton: 8 juggles with loops into box, 5 thumb tosses total starting and ending in the front. The fifth thumb toss goes into a one-spin.
Exchanges:

Swing toss on end, facing the partner. This will be a long toss, at least half the length of a gym.
Thumb toss while back to back with partner, turn to catch the other person’s baton.
Standing side by side, facing front, flat toss exchange

Panel Interview

Each candidate will participate in an interview with the adjudication panel. 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 email by the end of the audition day. 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?