Recruiting

The Drums recruit across southern Ontario and usually practice in the Greater Toronto Area.  We perform in Ontario and the United States during the summer and fall, while practicing regularly throughout the year.

There are no age restrictions, and both males and females are welcome to join.  As we are an active musical group, we do however require recruits to be physically capable of participating with us, playing their selected instrument, and willing to wear the appropriate uniform.

Previous musical experience is not required, but is certainly desirable. We provide lessons to new members (at the beginner and intermediate levels) at no cost at regularly scheduled practices and events.

We recruit primarily for fifers and drummers.  Those with experience playing the bugle or trumpet that may be able to portray buglers are also welcome to contact us.  Younger individuals may join our ‘Junior Janissary’ percussion section until they are able to learn one of the field instruments.

New members are responsible for learning the requisite musical and military skills to be able to participate fully.  They are required to attend practices whenever possible, and undertake self-directed learning and practice at home in addition.  Until they have learned the necessary skills, they wear the simple ‘barracks’ uniform, and may not participate in major performances, though the remainder of the group’s activities are open to them.

To gain full membership, and the right to wear the complete uniform, new members must learn a small, set list of tunes; upon which they are tested by their respective section leads.  Once this test is successfully completed, they may participate in all activities and performances, and don the group’s distinctive green coatee. 

We maintain a small store of uniforms and equipment for temporary loan to prospective recruits during a trial period.  However, the recruit must purchase personal items such as boots and shirts immediately themselves.  They must also acquire their own fife or drumsticks and drum pad, which are obtained through the group.

Once committed to joining, recruits must begin to acquire the uniform according to a set schedule.  This may be done by direct purchase, or via a payment plan offered by the group.  To maintain historical accuracy and uniformity, all clothing, equipment and instruments must be purchased from approved sources and / or made from approved patterns and materials.

If you are interested in joining the Drums of the Crown Forces 1812, or would like further information, please contact our Drum Major, Ross Flowers:

Drum-Major Ross Flowers
drummajor@drums1812.org