What is Winter Sky?

We are an independent colorguard program that performs in competitions throughout the Northeast including New York, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. Unlike scholastic programs, which are overseen by school districts, we are a non-profit company that is governed by a board of directors.

How old do I have to be to join?

We currently compete in the ‘A’ class, which has a maximum age of 21. While there is no minimum age limit, we generally want to see our members no younger than 13 both because of maturity level and that our shows will require a greater level of performance ability than most scholastic programs of the same class. This is just a general guideline so we do encourage everyone to tryout, as our decisions are not made solely on age. We can also connect you with other local programs that may appeal to a younger base.

How much does it cost?

This is a very important question. We have tentatively set our membership dues to around $850 for 2027.

At contract we only require $150, this will cover the cost of your custom member jacket and show shirts. Additional fees can be worked out with fundraising opportunities and payment plans. We’re flexible and never want anyone to feel like they can’t spin with us because of money. Contact us to learn more!

What if I don’t want to join my school’s program? Can I join you instead?

This has been a highly debated topic in the guard community. The competition circuits that we are a part of discourage participants with a school program from joining an independent group. They also discourage independent groups from recruiting from schools with existing programs. It has been said that your school’s director needs to sign off on you going to an independent group. This is not true. There are no rules that dictate that you need permission from anyone to go to another guard.
Winter Sky will encourage all perspective members to stay with their school but we understand that circumstances come up that makes people not want to participate. We have found that many students are made uncomfortable by directors so to ask them to get permission from someone that is the reason they want to leave is unrealistic.
If you are offered a contract with us, there will be a section that you and your guardian must sign that says that you are leaving a school program and a legitimate reason why. Winter Sky has adopted a “See Something, Say Something” policy and we will submit a letter to the circuits for every member that is leaving their school because they feel unsafe.

Are you part of the New York Skyliners Drum & Bugle Corps?

No. Winter Sky Independent, Inc. is an independent organization, not affiliated with any other group. When we were originally formed in 1992, the group was sponsored by the Skyliners with staff and performers being members of the corps. When we officially founded the group again in 2025, the administration was all alumni and former staff of the Skyliners but the organization is not sponsored in any way by them.

What if I cannot march with you? Is there other ways to help?

Absolutely! We depend heavily on volunteers to keep the wheels turning. We need people that can move equipment, cook, sew, transport members, and so many other behind the scenes tasks. There is always a way to help.