Gold Drum Corps & Bugle Corps 2025 Membership Agreement

All participating members are required to provide proof of age documentation showing that they meet age requirements. 

Drum and bugle corps composed of members not over 21 years of age shall be permitted to compete. Exception: Any member who turns 22 years of age on or after June 1 is eligible to march during that year.

Please upload a clear photo or scan of your proof of age document below. Acceptable documents include, but may not be limited to:

• Goverment issued photo ID with date of birth (ex: California Driver Licence or Identification Card, Military ID)
• Passport
• Birth Certificate

• Be on time to all rehearsals. If you are going to miss a rehearsal, inform your instructor well in advance. It is your responsibility to know when and where rehearsals are. Calendars are available on our website or through your leadership
• Arrive at rehearsals prepared and ready to rehearse. Start and end on time. Know and understand the objectives/goals for each rehearsal. If you don't know, ask!
• Swearing and abusive language will not be tolerated. Rehearse and perform professionally. You have the right to expect the same professionalism from the instructional staff.
• You are a role model for other ensemble members. Other ensemble members will act and behave as they see you act and behave. This role model responsibility applies at all times -- on the rehearsal/performance field and off.
• Set high standards for yourself. Ensure that you know and understand the ensemble’s expectations for the year. If you don't know their expectations, you will not meet or exceed them.
• Smoking and/or vaping in front of other ensemble/staff members is not acceptable. This includes rehearsals, performances, bus rides, and any other functions associated with the ensemble. The schools and facilities at which we stay/perform are tobacco-free campuses. Please respect their regulations.
• Alcohol use at any time is not allowed. This includes rehearsals, performances, bus rides and any other functions associated with the ensemble. A violation will result in dismissal from the ensemble.
• Illegal drug use at any time is not allowed. This includes rehearsals, performances, bus rides, and any other functions associated with the ensemble. A violation will result in dismissal from the ensemble.
• Take care of and respect your uniform, your equipment and your rehearsal/housing facilities. If something needs repair, please advise an instructor, a support staff member, or the director. No climbing fences. Leave the premises cleaner than when we arrived.
• Treat other ensemble members as you would like to be treated. Respect their personal needs and requests. This awareness applies to rehearsals, sleeping areas, and the bus. Tolerance is paramount. Ensure that your relationships with others include no inappropriate behavior. If you have a concern with someone, please advise the director for further support or action. Hazing and bullying will NOT be tolerated at Gold.
• Stealing is not tolerated at Gold. Taking property belonging to other people, the ensemble, or to our practice/housing sites, etc. will be dealt with severely.
• Treat your Drum Major, sectional heads, instructional staff, support staff, drivers, volunteers, other corps, parents and fans with respect. Support staff, drivers, chaperones, etc., volunteer their time for your benefit; most of them work full time and often use vacation time for the benefit of the ensemble. Treat them with appreciation and respect for the dedicated work they perform. When you need their help, be courteous and ask politely.
• Remember that any unhappiness or anger with other ensemble behavior is dealt with at the Director level. Ensemble members and parents may be tempted to utilize forums or social media to complain about others, but this is NOT the way Gold does business. Don't dishonor Gold's good name by posting negative comments that can be interpreted as representing Gold organization's opinion. Don't start flame wars, even if you think you're right. If you have nothing nice to say, then don't say it. Staff is serious about protecting Gold's reputation.
• Leave nothing to the last minute. Plan ahead of time to get things done.
• You represent Gold at all times. It doesn't matter where you are -- rehearsals, performances or other non-ensemble related functions. If someone knows you are a member of the ensemble, then you represent the entire organization. Make that action happen with pride and class!

By initialing below I acknowledge that I have received the Gold Youth Arts Code of Conduct and agree to follow it. I understand that failure to adhere to Gold Youth Arts Organization Code of Conduct could lead to your dismissal from the ensemble and a forfeiture of your tuition and participation fees.

Tuition and Fees

• The tuition for the 2025 season is $5600.00.
• Mandatory fundraising obligation of $300, satisfied in one of the following ways (or a combination thereof):
  
  • Option 1: Work at Drum Corps Events or on tour as Volunteer. (Credit $30/day)
  • Option 2: Purchase and donate one fully cooked meal for the corps (225 members and staff).
  • Option 3: Locate local restaurant to donate one meal for corps. (BJ’s, Lazy Dog, Chilis, etc.)
  • Option 4: Buy Out fundraising obligation by writing check.
• Participation in any scheduled fundraisers is required.

Deposit to Secure a Spot

• Once a member is accepted, a non-refundable deposit of $850 is due to secure that spot. 
• That deposit is due within seven days of your contract offer date. 

Tuition Payments

• Members are expected to make monthly payments according to the standard payment schedule so that tuition is paid in full by June 15, 2025. 
  
  • Immediately upon signed contract: $850.00
  • 1st Payment: February 15, 2025 - $950.00
  • 2nd payment: March 15, 2025 – $950.00
  • 3rd payment: April 15, 2025 – $950.00
  • 4th payment: May 15, 2025 – $950.00
  • Final payment: June 15, 2025 – $950.00
  • All accounts must be Paid in Full (including remaining meal obligation) by June 15, 2025.
• Members requesting an alternate payment schedule must contact the Executive Director at their earliest possible opportunity, no later than March 15, 2025. Altered payment schedules must be approved by the Gold Board of Directors and are not guaranteed. 
• Members who have not made their tuition payments as scheduled will not be permitted to rehearse, perform or travel with the ensemble.

Discounts

• Veteran members will earn a $100 discount for their first season completed at Gold; a $200 discount for two or more seasons completed at Gold. 
• Members paid in full within two (2) weeks of acceptance will receive a $200 early-bird discount. 

Discounts will be applied to the final tuition payment. All previous payments must meet the standard tuition payment schedule.

Late Fees

• If fees are not paid in full by the assigned due date, the member will be subject to a late fee of $100 per month, beginning one day after the assigned due date. If the Director of Operations, in conjunction with the Gold Board of Directors approve a payment extension, the late fee may be waived.

Bounced Checks

• If a check is returned due to insufficient funds, a $25 NSF fee will be charged to the member. If a second check is returned due to insufficient funds, another $25 NSF fee will be charged and all future payments for the season must be made by credit card, debit card, cash, or cashier’s check.

Dismissal for Cause

• If Gold terminates a member for cause due to a violation of the Gold Youth Arts Organization Code of Conduct, no refunds shall be provided, and all fees due through the termination date shall be due immediately. The member will be responsible for all costs of returning back to their home. In the event that Gold pays this cost, the member will be invoiced for the costs which will be due immediately.
• If Gold terminates a member due to performance ability, a tuition credit will be calculated based upon the Withdrawal Due to Injury policy.

Withdrawal Due to Injury

• If a member suffers an illness, accident, or injury that requires a withdrawal before the end of the season, they must complete a Performer Withdrawal Form and return it with a doctor’s note recommending withdrawal. If the Performer Withdrawal Form is dated before June 15, 2025 the member’s account will be credited 75% of tuition paid, less their $650 deposit.
• On or after June 15, 2025, the credit will be calculated at a rate of $25 per day of non-participation through August 10, 2025. Whether a refund results depends on payments made.

Withdrawal Due to Personal Reasons

• To withdraw from Gold, the member must complete a Performer Withdrawal Form and return it by email, mail, or in person. 
• Refunds will be issued for the amount of tuition paid above what is due according to the standard payment schedule above. In the event that the member’s payments are not up to the current scheduled total, the difference will still be required to be paid. 
• Failure to attend rehearsal or merely giving notice to an instructor or another member will not be regarded as notice of withdrawal, and tuition charges will continue to accrue until the Performer Withdrawal Form is completed and returned.

Refund due to Cancellation of Season

• While we do not anticipate this, if the season is cancelled, refunds will be calculated based upon the Withdrawal Due to Injury policy. Appeals for exceptions may be made in writing to the Gold Youth Arts Organization Board of Directors.

Exceptions to the Fees Schedule and Policies

• Except where noted within the document, there are no exceptions to the Fees Schedule and Policies above. Appeals for exceptions may be made in writing to the Gold Youth Arts Organization Board of Directors. The Board of Directors will vote whether to grant an appeal at the regularly scheduled Board meeting following the date the appeal was received.

By initialing below I acknowledge that I have received the Gold Drum & Bugle Corps 2025 Tuition and Fees Schedule.

As a performing member of Gold Drum & Bugle Corps, a program of San Diego-based Gold Youth Arts Organization, Inc. (referred to as “Gold”), I acknowledge and agree to the terms set forth below.

1. ELIGIBILITY. 
In compliance with Drum Corps International’s (DCI) eligibility requirements, I acknowledge that I must be 21 years of age or younger as of 12:01am on June 1, 2025. I understand that, to be in compliance with DCI, I need to provide age verification in the form of a copy of a government issued ID, such as a driver's license, military ID, passport or birth certificate.

2. ATTENDANCE. 
Attendance at all rehearsals, events, performances and competitions affiliated with Gold is mandatory. Personal time will be scheduled to avoid conflicts. Excusable conflicts include: rehearsal/performance with school band/color guard, end-of-year banquet for school music/ performance program, school graduation. I will immediately inform Gold of these or any others.

3. TUITION & FEES. 
3.1 Tuition and Fees Schedule. I have received a copy of the 2025 Tuition and Fees schedule and agree to comply with the terms in that document
3.2 Additional Costs. I acknowledge that there may be other additional costs that are incurred by the member but not payable to Gold that may include: rehearsal attire, athletic shoes, uniform undergarments, and other needs for rehearsal and/or tour.  
3.3 Acceleration of Debt. In the event I fail to make any payment due under these terms, or breach any condition, seek relief under the Bankruptcy Code, or suffer an involuntary petition in bankruptcy not vacated within 30 days, the entire balance and any late fees accrued shall be immediately due to Gold. 
3.4 Payments. Payments may be made onsite at rehearsals, via mail, or online. 

4. OUTSTANDING OBLIGATIONS.
I have no outstanding financial obligations with any DCI or WGI organization. Financial obligations to Gold must be paid in full before I may participate with another organization.

5. WITHDRAWING 
5.1 Withdrawal Process. All withdrawals will be handled in accordance with the withdrawal policies as specified on the 2025 Tuition and Fees document.
5.2 Membership Transfer. I understand that I cannot transfer to another drum and bugle corps after May 1, 2025 without written consent from the Executive Director. All terms in Section 5 apply.

6. PROPERTY
I am fully responsible for the care of my uniform and equipment (horn, drum, keys, flag, etc.), as well as any property I use that belongs to the organization and may be financially responsible for the damage and/or replacement/repair resulting from my carelessness or negligent use of these and any other Gold property while in my trust. This includes facilities used by the organization or property not belonging to Gold. All equipment/property provided by Gold will be returned to the corps at the end of the competition season (or when my membership in the corps ends, if prior). 

7. BEHAVIOR
7.1 Code of Conduct. I acknowledge receipt of the Gold Youth Arts Organization Code of Conduct for 2025 and agree to abide by it.
7.2 Prohibited Substances. I am prohibited to use or be under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs any time between the start and end of Gold rehearsals, performances, competitions and other related events. 
7.3 Inappropriate Behavior. I will not behave in any way that is deemed obscene, disrespectful, or meant to harm or bring fear to any instructor, member, staff or volunteer of Gold or any other corps. Additionally, any verbal or nonverbal, written, physical or visual form of harassment will not be tolerated. 

8. MULTIMEDIA RELEASE
I grant permission to Gold and its representatives the unlimited right to produce and use photos, videos, direct quotes and/or audio of my name, voice, likeness, image and biographical information while participating in Gold activities.

9. AGREEMENT TERMINATION 
9.1 Cause for Termination. I am aware that failure to meet any of the obligations or commitments described in this Agreement constitutes good cause for expulsion from Gold. 
9.2 Right of Rescission. You have three business days from the date this document is signed to midnight of the third day to have the terms within broken and the Agreement terminated. 
9.3. Arbitration Clause. All disputes, controversies, or claims arising out of or relating to this Agreement shall be submitted binding arbitration in accordance with the applicable rules of the American Arbitration Association then in effect. 
9.4. Savings Clause. If any provision of this Agreement is held unenforceable, then such provision will be modified to reflect the parties’ intention. All remaining provisions shall remain in full effect. 
9.5. Attorney Fees Clause. In the event of litigation relating to this Agreement, the non-prevailing party shall reimburse the prevailing party for all reasonable attorney fees and costs resulting therefrom. 
9.6. Modification. No modification or waiver of any of the terms of this Agreement shall be allowed unless by written agreement signed by the member and at least two members of the Board of Directors. No waiver of any breach shall be deemed a waiver of any subsequent breach of similar nature. 

By signing, I acknowledge that I have read and fully understand the Agreement and/or have had the contents fully explained to my satisfaction. I acknowledge I am not under duress, incapacitated, or have any intent to defraud and that this Agreement is binding between Gold Youth Arts Organization, Inc. and the party (or parties) below. If I am under 18, a parent or legal guardian also acknowledges the above.

I, the undersigned participant in Gold Drum & Bugle Corps (a program of Gold Youth Arts Organization, Inc.), or the parent/guardian of the above listed participant, if he/she is under the age of 18, acknowledge and fully understand that each participant in Gold will be engaging in activities that involve risk of serious injury, including permanent disability or death, which might result not only from the participant’s action, inaction or negligence, but also the action, inaction or negligence of others and/or the condition of any premises (including but not limited to football fields), risks created by the forces of nature and hazards of travel by air, train, bus, automobile, and other means, including but not limited to walking and/or driving or being driven to and from rehearsals and other activities, and furthermore, that there may be other unknown risks that are not reasonably foreseeable at this time.

Participation includes possible exposure to and illness from infectious diseases including but not limited to MRSA, influenza, and COVID-19. While particular rules and personal discipline may reduce this risk, the risk of serious illness and death does exist; and, I KNOWINGLY AND FREELY ASSUME ALL SUCH RISKS, both known and unknown, EVEN IF ARISING FROM THE NEGLIGENCE OF THE RELEASEES or others, and assume full responsibility for my participation. I willingly agree to comply with the stated and customary terms and conditions for participation as regards to protection against infectious diseases. If, however, I observe any unusual or significant hazard during my presence or participation, I will remove myself from participation and bring such to the attention of the nearest official immediately.

Accordingly, I acknowledge, fully understand and agree that I assume all the foregoing risk and accept personal responsibility for the damages following such illness, injury, permanent disability or death, and hereby release, discharge, covenant to indemnify and not to sue Gold, its instructors, managers, employees and associated personnel, officers, directors, agents, members, volunteers and representatives from any and all liability to the undersigned, his/her heirs and next of kin, against any and all claims by or on behalf of the participant as a result of the participant’s participation in Gold.

In an event of participant's illness, I hereby authorize any of the directors, officers, managers, instructors or chaperones of Gold who are present to consent to whatever x- ray examination, anesthetic, medical, surgical, or dental diagnosis, treatment, and/or hospital care that may be considered necessary for the participant in the reasonable judgment of the attending physician, surgeon, or dentist and to be performed by or under the supervision of a member of the medical staff of the hospital or facility furnishing such medical or dental services. I agree to be financially responsible for the cost of such assistance and/or treatment. I recognize and agree that the directors, officers, managers, instructors or chaperones of Gold consenting to such health care may reasonably and in good faith rely upon the advice furnished to him or her by the attending licensed health care provider(s).

I have read the above waiver/release and understand that I have given up substantial rights by signing this release and sign below voluntarily. I understand that this document may not be altered in any manner without the express written consent of the Director of Gold and that any unauthorized alteration will cause the participant to be removed from Gold.