Elements of a Superior Band – Fundamentals in music training, part 1 (Concert F)
For a long time, I viewed fundamental teaching as a “necessary evil” that I had to endure. Sure, I would go through the motions and do what I thought I should do, but I did not listen — really listen — to what sounds my students were making. For the first year or two of…
Elements of a Superior Band – Routine
What is the routine of the group that you work with? Some band directors have a specific schedule that they stick to, others have a throw things at the wall and see what sticks style. Of the groups that I have worked with (some on a regular basis, others for clinics), I have found that…
General Effect – What is General Effect?
Today, I am starting a series of posts on General Effect. I don’t know how many posts will happen, but it is something that I am asked about a lot. Now by no means am I an expert in every little nuance of effect; however, I have some ideas that have proven to be very…
General Effect – Using digital prop covers and silks to enhance your show
Being a band director, I am always looking for economical ways to enhance my marching performances. We all have seen great looking stage items from elaborate pirate ships, huge candelabras and portable stages. Sometimes though, we can’t use these things because we do not have the budget to pay for supplies, we do not have…
General Effect – Timeline and Combination of Elements
When you are watching one of your favorite shows, do you wonder how they made it all work? Occasionally, it happens by chance…and by occasionally, I really mean 1 out of every 100 times. Maybe even 1 out of 1000 times does it all come together just by a great idea in rehearsal, or a…
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Sweet Marching 