Have Questions?
How long is the Matrix season?
Rehearsals start in November and occur every weekend between November & April. Shows typically start in early February and conclude with WGI Championships in April. See our google calendar for prior year schedules: [https://calendar.google.com/calendar/b/1?cid=NzUxbjZtNmdqNWQ0YnFsMnR1NWE0Nmpj dWdAZ3JvdXAuY2FsZW5kYXIuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbQ]
When and where are auditions held?
Two audition dates are held in October of each year; typically on a Sunday in the Akron area. Official dates and locations are announced in August; audition material and registration become available for sale on our online store in late August each year.
Do I need to attend both auditions?
No; but we highly suggest you do! Your registration covers both dates & auditions are held in a clinic format. This is a great opportunity to learn the Matrix technique and receive feedback from our staff. If you do have a conflict, we understand and it will not be held against you in the audition process.
Does the audition cover Open & World?
Yes, after our two general audition days, we have two call back days - one for World and one for Open. If you are only interested in a specific group, please let your staff member know at the first audition date. All auditionees are evaluated together initially and then call backs are given accordingly.
What can I expect from the audition process?
Our audition process is largely group oriented in a clinic format, although we do some individual auditions based on final decision making. We do not do any sight reading and also do a fair amount of visual evaluation as part of the process as well. We typically hold two audition days and while you are not required to attend both auditions, if the person is looking to march that winter we would highly advise it as it gives them more time with the staff to learn and more opportunity for us to evaluate and get a read on not only current skill level but potential and ability to improve as well. That is very difficult to read in one day.
The technique packet has a great deal of information. If you read through it all, you’ll notice that it addresses not only preparation for the audition but also how we approach things. We definitely have some students who come to auditions just to learn with no real intention on their part of being in the ensemble, which is a great way to get a feel for things, if they would want to participate in the future. We always encourage taking some time to truly digest all of the information in the text portion of the packet and not just preparing the exercises.
Can I do a video audition?
We do allow video auditions for those overseas or living further than driving distance. Please reach via our email [matrixperformingarts@gmail.com] for more information.
Is there a monetary commitment to participate in Matrix?
Yes, season dues are calculated to cover instruments, uniforms, props, truck rental and fuel, and other supplies and equipment for the season. Dues are specific to group (Open vs. World) and role (musician, visual, prop). Please reach out via our email for more information.
Where do rehearsals take place? Where is Matrix located?
Matrix is based in Akron, OH, but our rehearsals mostly take place in Carrollton, OH. Shows are typically held in Dayton, Columbus, Indianapolis, Wapakoneta and Akron. In any given year this locations could vary, but are typically within a 5 hour drive of Akron, OH. Our permanent mailing address is 5688 Opal St. North Ridgeville, OH 44039.
Is matrix a non-profit?
Yes; matrix is incorporated in the state of Ohio as a 510c3 non-profit organization. For tax purposes, our EIN is 47-1689398. All donations made to matrix are tax deductible.
What is WGI?
WGI - Winter Guard International is the global circuit that Matrix performs in. For more information, including show times, schedules and scores, please visit their website - https://www.wgi.org/
What is OIPA?
OIPA - Ohio Indoor Performance Association is the local circuit that Matrix performs in. For more information, including show times, schedules and scores, please visit their website - http://ohiocircuit.org/index.html