What is the cost to march in the Reading Buccaneers?

The Membership Day registration fee is $75.  Each weekend camp attended thereafter will also be $75.  This cost covers instructional staff, facility rental, equipment usage, and operational expenses.  These fees are non-refundable.

If you are offered a spot in the corps for the season, you will be required to pay the full tuition of $2,000.00 for the 2025 season.  This can be paid immediately upon being offered a spot, or spread out over installments as agreed with the treasurer.  Installment payments require a credit card be provided and automated payments set up.  Any camp fees that you paid prior to being offered a spot will be applied towards your tuition.  Tuition discount of $75 will be applied if paid off within 60 days of being offered a spot.

What does my dues pay for?

The answer is operating costs. Those costs which most effect directly affect you as members are the following:
- SafeSport training
- Music rights
- Facility rentals
- Show design and production materials
- Uniforms / Costumes
- Instructional staff salaries
- Instruments/equipment purchase and maintenance
- Transportation to and from shows and DCI All-Age Championships in Indianapolis, Indiana
- Equipment truck maintenance, fuel, and repairs
- Some meals

FYI – all officers of the corps (the administration) are on a volunteer basis. No administrative personnel are paid.

Are there any additional costs on top of dues that I need to be aware of?

Yes.  Marching with the Buccaneers requires member specific items that are the responsibility of the member to purchase.  Some examples include but are not limited to:
- Marching shoes - ~$50
- Compression shirts - ~$25
- Gloves - ~ $3 a pair
- Percussion sticks/mallets - Vary depending on need

I want to march, but I know I will struggle to afford it.  Are there any options?

We want people who want to be here. If you are going to have trouble meeting the financial obligation, we will work with you. Your part of the deal is communication and honesty. You need to inform us of your situation and that you will have trouble meeting your obligation. Tell us what you can do, and we will do our best to help you.

We also provide various means to assist with your dues that require you to own and drive.  Our Fundraising Coordinator will coordinate some efforts dedicated to help offset dues such as calendar fundraiser, sponsorship forms, etc.  There is also a yearly scholarship from the Alumni corps called the Ned's Fund that all members are eligible to apply for.

All of this to say, if you want to march and you are willing to put in the effort, we will help you find a way.

Who can I talk to further about assistance?

Primarily, the Treasurer, Danielle Marone. If you would rather to talk with someone you know better on the admin team, then talk to them and they will take your information and provide it to Danielle or introduce you to her.