SOSA Percussion

For more information please email Ben Pyles - benjamin.pyles@utsa.edu

SOSA Percussion FAQ and Audition Materials:

 How do the auditions work for SOSA’s Front Ensemble and Battery?

  • All of our auditions are treated as a “hearing” more so than an audition. Anyone interested in being part of our ensemble will be assigned a role.  

  • All excerpts will be selected from our percussion packet that you can find on our website.  

  • We will go through an individual and group stage during the audition. Based on the quality of your performance, we will offer positions based on your interests and the needs for the group.

  • Our instrumentation will be determined by the size of the group and the individual playing abilities of the ensemble.

 Can I audition for both Front Ensemble and Battery?

  • Yes!  We encourage everyone to focus on their number one choice. During your individual hearing, we’ll make sure to speak with everyone on their desired instrumentation and ask about other interests you may have. Our goal is to place you in a position that you want to be in and enjoy!

  • Music Ed. Majors are required to spend one season in the battery and one season in the front. This is to ensure that you have the tools necessary for future teaching opportunities and become a well rounded rudimental percussionist. 

 How many positions are open?

  • All positions are re-auditioned for every year. Many veteran members choose to move instruments throughout their time with the ensemble.  

  • Our battery typical battery instrumentation is:

    • Snares ( 7 - 9)

    • Tenors (4 - 5)

    • Bass (5 - 6)

    • Cymbals (5 - 10)

    • Marimba (4 - 7)

    • Vibraphone ( 4 - 7)

    • Xylo/Glock (1)

    • Drumset (1)

    • Synth/Guitar (3 - 4)

 Should I bring my own sticks and mallets / instruments?

  • It’s always best to have something you’re comfortable using for the audition process. I would always recommend having your own set of sticks and mallets. You do not need to bring your own instruments. We have plenty of drums and keyboards to accommodate everyone.    

  • SOSA will provide the ensemble with Innovative Percussion sticks and mallets throughout the season, along with all drums and keyboards that you will need to perform.  Once the season starts, we require you to use those implements and instruments.

 Do I need to learn a different style to make the battery/front ensemble?

  • It is very likely that our style will be different for some of the incoming freshman/new members. For the audition, we do worry about the style or approach. We will teach everyone the nuances and subtleties of the technique throughout the season. Come in prepared, make quality sounds, with great accuracy, and you’ll be just fine.

  • Our technique is based on natural range of motion, with a controlled yet fluid approach to the instruments.  

Audition Materials: