So I saw this thread and got all excited. I'm very active in the music programs at USAFA, including both orchestra and Drum and Bugle Corps.
First of all I will clarify some things about D+B. Yes, it is a HUGE time commitment. And huge is an understatement. During football season, we rehearse everyday until around 1900. On weekends, we have weekend long rehearsals. If you're in D+B, that's pretty much your life.
Yes, it is a contracted activity. This means you can't quit once you sign the contract. The only thing that gets you out is a CARDS hit. Ac pro doesn't even get you out. You still have to go to rehearsals, you just don't get to travel. Traveling is the one good thing about D+B, especially for freshmen, because it gets you off campus.
D+B is also an LOS activity, meaning it takes precedence over pretty much everything. So if you're a 4-dig that wants to go to all training sessions and whatnot, D+B probably wouldn't be for you.
What instruments are included in D+B? We play on bugles, so we have sopranos(trumpets), altos (french horn/mello), baritones, and euphoniums. We have a drum line that consists of snare, bass, and tenors. We also have a cymbal section and a pit. I played in pit and cymbals last year, but will be "upgrading" to a horn for the next season.
D+B is kind of a love/hate relationship. Everyone hates going, but it's one of those things that you still love going to, despite the fact. Almost all my friends are in D+B, and you get to meet all sorts of people through the program. They hold auditions right after BCT, but since our numbers are low, pretty much anyone interested makes it. Even if you've never played an instrument before, come! You can learn. They'll announce when auditions are, so you won't have to worry about missing them.
Would I recommend D+B? Yes, it's a great way for freshmen in particular to get involved. If you have questions (specifically about the infamous director... PM me, and I'll give you the low down).
I also was in the orchestra as the piccolo player/flute. I love orchestra! Different than D+B, it is not a huge time commitment at all. We rehearse on Sundays for a couple hours, and have concerts twice a semester. Anyone who plays an instrument is welcome, and there are no auditions. We're especially in need of some trumpet players! The catch is you need to have your own instrument... Sign up for orchestra during the Club Day, or contact me during the school year and I'll let you know when our rehearsal time is.