Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sun City Independent?
Sun City Independent (SCI) is an indoor marching percussion ensemble based in El Paso, Texas. SCI has two percussion groups, Sun City Independent Open (SCIO) and Sun City Independent A (SCIA). Both of these group compete in Winter Guard International (WGI) in the Independent Open and A classes. SCI uses percussion instruments such as snare, tenor, and bass drums along with cymbals, marimbas, vibraphones, xylophones, synthesizers, and other auxiliary instruments. We also occasionally include dancers in our productions, too! SCI does have an age requirement of at least 14 years of age and a restriction of 22 years old. All skill levels are welcome to learn more about the marching and percussion performing arts!
What is Winter Guard International?
“WGI Sport of the Arts is the world’s premier organization producing indoor color guard, percussion, and winds competitions. As a non-profit youth organization, WGI also serves as the governing body for the indoor color guard, percussion, and winds activities. It is called the Sport of the Arts because it brings music to life through performance in a competitive format.” Sun City Independent competes in the WGI Percussion category.
How do I become a member?
Anyone within the ages of 14 and 22 who play a percussion instrument are welcome to audition to be a member, as well as dancers! Interested members must attend our interest and audition camps to be considered as a member. If you aren’t able to make these in person, feel free to reach out to us about sending in a video audition. In order to attend these camps, the registration fee must be purchased.
How do I register to audition?
You can register to audition here. You may also register in person at the interest and audition camp. After purchasing your registration fee, you will be emailed a link to download the audition exercise packet. If you register in person, you will be emailed the audition exercise packet, as well. This packet includes material to be gone over during camp, so it is best to register early so you can review it before the camp.
What does the audition process look like?
When attending the interest and audition camps, staff will evaluate you based on your initial skill level, as well as your growth throughout the camps. You will be taught exercises and concepts during the camp and your execution of these will be considered in the audition process. The material included in the audition exercise packet will also be a part of your evaluation. After the camps have concluded, staff will then meet to discuss membership. Once they have made their decision, staff will offer contracts to members either in person or via email.
How long is the season?
The indoor marching season begins with interest and audition camps in September. Rehearsal weekends will begin in October and carry on into January. In February, rehearsal weekends will continue along with local and out-of-town contests. March consists of our biggest contests with out of town travel for WGI Regionals. April is where our season concludes with WGI World Championships in Dayton, Ohio.
When do members rehearse?
Our rehearsals are on the weekends. Friday rehearsals are from 5:30pm to 10:30pm. Saturday rehearsals are from 9:00am to 10:00pm with lunch and dinner breaks in between. These rehearsals are crucial to our success, as we learn and clean our drill, music, and choreography for our show during these times.
Where will SCI be traveling?
Sun City Independent has yet to solidify its 2025 schedule, but stay tuned! In the past, SCI has traveled to the WGI Phoenix Regional and the WGI Denver Regional in March. SCI will also travel to the WGI World Championships in Dayton, OH in April.
How much are membership dues?
Membership dues for SCI 2024 were $2,081. This fee includes instrument/equipment use, instrument/equipment maintenance, a custom uniform, travel, housing, show design fees, show production costs, rehearsal facility fees, contest fees, and staff instruction. Veteran members also receive a discount depending on the amount of years they’ve marched. Additionally, if members have participated in other SCMA ensembles, they are eligible for a discount, as well!
Do I have to pay out-of-pocket?
Not entirely! We offer plenty of fundraising opportunities to alleviate out-of-pocket costs. With these opportunities, many members are able to pay off all, if not most, of their tuition. We also have flexible payment plans to fit what is best for you. Examples of our fundraising opportunities include calendar fundraisers, donations, sponsorship letters, community events, merchandise fundraisers, and more!
Why march Sun City Independent?
SCI offers an incredible opportunity to learn more about the marching and performing arts. Members can dive deeper into this activity outside of their school programs. Because SCI is the one of the few percussion groups in El Paso, many members experience their first time marching indoor with us. You will develop musical and performance skills, gain lifelong friendships, and travel and perform for cheering crowds! After marching with SCI, many alumni return to their school programs with a wealth of knowledge to share with their peers. Alumni also go on to march with Drum Corps in the summer. Don’t miss out on this amazing chance to push yourself, create unforgettable memories, and become part of the Sun City family!