Creating a “First Class Experience.”
The Marching Illini carry a great deal of pride in their status and visibility as a college marching band. Not only are they the oldest college band in the nation, but they are also a part of the BIG Ten Conference. They affiliate as part of a greater marching cohort, with many young performers dreaming of one day marching with a BIG Ten band.
While, Houser states, leading a college marching program is really quite similar to leading a high school program (best practice blends across education levels), the rigor of college marching is quite different from high school. Are they competing? No. But from a teaching standpoint, Houser explains that the pace and learning curve move significantly faster. The Marching Illini (like many other in the BIG Ten) don’t spend 5 months perfecting 1 show. Rather, they churn out new shows for every performance. “Most people do not understand what it takes to turn around 30+ pages of drill, at least 3 new pieces of music, and fight through the weather to put a show together in a week or two,” Houser explains.” He has discovered that, while he leads students who come from both competitive and non-competitive marching backgrounds, the pace is a shock to both. But he is continually proud of his students for stepping up to the challenge and making it happen. “My hope,” he affirms, “is that my students have a first class experience in being a part of the amazing pageantry and tradition of the Marching Illini.”
Electing a Culture of Excellence.
I keep the standards of our organization very high based on professionalism, integrity, and valuing the daily experience. – Barry Houser, Director of Marching Illini
To Houser, a great leader is one who continues to learn. They are students who act the role no matter the eyes that watch them. They meet the demand of a highly-engaging and rigorous marching program, all while helping their peers and maintaining academic achievement. The 375-member Marching Illini contains leaders who not only come from every academic college on campus, but also continue to be “students of their craft” on and off the field.
With 100+ students who desire to hold a leadership position in the band, Houser chooses students who meet and exceed the ideals above as well as uphold the 4 pillars of any Marching Illini member. Students have the option to audition for a marching or music position. Each section contains both leaders, allowing for more detailed feedback and on-field assistance. Students submit an essay on leadership coupled with a video illustrating why they would like to serve the MI in this capacity. There must also be a teaching component in the video submission. The teaching portion allows Houser to evaluate “how each student will potentially operate in this position.” Additionally, Houser has opened the auditions to the band, Each student is allotted an opportunity to provide their feedback to their section’s candidates through an electronic form. This allowance gives students direct ownership in their band experience. What Houser stresses most is that this is not a “one event” process. “The leadership application,” as is true with life, “is taking place daily as soon as my students walk in the door on day one.” This expectation creates a culture of excellence in which every member, no matter their title, is expected to act like a leader.
One of the most visible roles in any college band is that of the Drum Major. This position is a highly visible role that requires talent, tact, professionalism, and the utmost school spirit. The Marching Illini drum majors are faces in the band, on campus, and in the community. They conduct at halftime, in the stands, and help with leading the student staff (section leaders). Houser meets weekly with the DM team to get a pulse check on the organization from a student perspective. Additionally, they are “figure heads” for the band. They conduct interviews with media and participate in university and athletic videos.
Their process is 4-fold. They must still submit an essay and must also sit down for a face-to-face interview with Houser in which they discuss topics like “leadership, conflict resolution, teamwork, cultivating a positive environment, and overall school spirit.” Part 3 is a live interview with the band. They are expected to speak, conduct (technique and engagement with the band), and teach fundamentals. The final component is for them to memorize and perform the MI run on step, the back end of pregame, and the iconic mace routine to “Illinois Loyalty.” Final candidates have approximately 3 months to learn these requirements. Student and staff feedback are critical factors in this decision, and typically 3 drum majors are chosen.
It’s All About Relationships.
Above all, Houser believes that what keeps students around isn’t just the music…it’s the culture students are an active part of. At the college level, students have a myriad choices of how to spend their time. If they don’t love what they’re a part of, it’s easy enough to find another activity. “There’s no way we could achieve what we do,” explains Houser, if we are not providing a positive environment for the students. “They won’t necessarily remember what show we performed at the Redbox or Rose Bowl. They remember the positive interactions with other members.”
Beyond these interactions though, the other gear in the culture generator of any great organization is tradition. The Marching Illini, now entering their 152nd season, understand the sanctity of an upheld tradition. Houser explains:
‘The Incomparable Three in One’ is a medley of three pieces of music written for the Marching Illini…It is something that is performed at every home game at halftime…that brings our current students and alums together since all members, regardless of age, have performed this iconic tradition. It was established in 1926 and continues to bring all ages from many generations together to share in this cherished music, drill, and tradition at the University of Illinois.
“
Being a member of the Marching Illini means working together to advocate for school spirit, always supporting our athletic teams, and constantly working towards excellence in all that we do… Being a member of the Marching Illini has set me up for lifelong success by teaching me to bring perseverance, dedication, and excellence to all that I do.
Ashley B.
/ 3rd year student
“
I am a member of a family that works together to attain perfection while promoting respect. WE are loyal, proud, and always willing to lend a hand. It is an honor. [I return each year for] the thrill of performing on the field and the roar of the crowd! The opportunity to unite with the MI family and for a few moments recapture what was one of our most important college experiences.
Maureen D.
/ Marching Illini Alum
“
The bonds, the friendships, the experiences all help create stories. When I was a student, I would always love to hear alumni tell stories from days they were in the band. Now, I am able to tell current students stories of when I was in the band. My closest friends today are people I met in the MI… Alumni come back to be in that positive atmosphere and tell stories…and see the tradition continue.
Justin P., MD
/ Marching Illini Alum
“
Membership in the Marching Illini means being a symbol for the University of Illinois and being a part of a connected family… From a confused new member to becoming a section leader, I have seen first hand the impact membership in the MI can have on a college career… While these opportunities have provided me with incredible memories, it is my relationship with the people in MI that I cherish the most… I believe alumni continue to return…because of these relationships and the feeling of importance, pride, and belonging that accompany it.
John G.
/ MI Alto Sax Marching Section Leader
To Be an Influential Leader.
The mark of any great leader is their ability to bring out the best leadership qualities in those around them. They raise up their subordinates, students, etc., and inspire them through action to be stewards of the organization. This is how a positive culture is created. Houser finds students who lead on a daily basis “when people aren’t watching them.” He rewards students who show a “genuine love and dedication for the Marching Illini,” and share their talents with those around them. “Our culture is always about passing on knowledge,” Houser believes, “so we [can] continue to strengthen our culture and level of excellence.” This is what it means to be a member of the Marching Illini.
For more information on the Marching Illini, visit: http://marchingillini.com/.
]]>This year, WGI and DSI are proud to team up once more to offer the Ultimate DSI Guard Room Makeover! To be announced during the 2020 WGI finals retreat at UD Arena in Dayton, OH, three lucky groups will win:
- 24 Aluminum Flag Poles
- 48 Flag Pole Weight Anchors
- 48 Rubber Pole Caps
- 24 Poly China Silk Practice Flags
- 9 Elite Wooden Rifles
Together We Can!
But this year, we are shaking things up! WGI and DSI have partnered with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The contest will help to raise funds for the cancer research, putting a song and dance of hope in those fighting childhood cancer. Treatments invented at St. Jude have helped push the overall childhood cancer survival rate from 20% to more than 80% since it opened more than 50 years ago. Their goal of ending childhood illnesses and the efforts of donors have provided patients with livelihoods they otherwise could never have imagined.
Register Today!
ANY participating WGI group can register for the event, and all have until March 31 at midnight to register. Groups can sign up here. Each participating group will receive their own fundraising page through St. Jude’s event site, and can show off their progress throughout the season! Registration comes with a variety of tools and resources to designed to help along the way. Together, we can help to end childhood cancer!
]]>But what about rehearsals? As the chill of fall and hints of winter start becoming a factor in rehearsal preparations, let’s talk about some important safety precautions we can take to ensure that students are as prepared for the cold as they are for the heat.
A Chill is in the Air.
If you’re from the Midwest or the North East, snow, or at least extreme cold temperatures, are a mainstay of your existence. It’s common to hear Midwesterners say that fall lasts a week, winter lasts 6 months, and spring may decide to show up for a day. However, our body’s reaction to heat and cold is entirely relative. While the South and Pacific West think 60 degrees calls for puffy jackets and layers, someone in Wisconsin sees 60 and rushes to open the lake house for the summer! The same applies to our perception of hot temperatures.
With that said, nearly everyone in marching band will experience the “cold part” of the season. From students to staff, important safety measures need to be considered when planning for rehearsals toward the tail end of the season. Cold conditions, raise a serious risk for performers and staff alike. In order to maintain peak performance and drive the final push of the season, staff need to know the risks cold weather poses and how to prevent injury/illness due the cold.
Tips and Tricks.
The NFHS Band Safety course outlines guidelines and tools needed to understand cold weather risk and how to mitigate it.
- Dress for success. Wear layers of loose fitting, warm clothing. The loose fit allows moisture from sweat to stay away from the body and prevents further chill from setting in. It is important to wear layers as opposed to one thick layer as well. This creates pockets of warmth and additional chill barriers. Wearing a hat will prevent needed heat from escaping the body as well.
- Frostbite affects small, exposed body parts (particularly relevant for woodwinds, percussionists, and color guard who all rely on the dexterity of their hands). Frostbite begins with extremely cold, red skin and worsens to hard, numb, pale skin. Instant hand warmers and employing “play rotations” are effective ways to mitigate this risk.
- Hypothermia occurs when “the body temp drops below 96 degrees, and can occur in outdoor temps as warm as 60 degrees.” It is important to recognize the onset of hypothermia in performers and fellow staff members. If frostbite or hypothermia seem to be a threat, remove the individual from the cold and seek help immediately. To learn more, enroll in the free course.
- The body burns more calories in cold weather than it does in warm weather. Performers should ensure they are eating a nutritious diet. Additionally, eating hot foods and drinking warm liquids prior to rehearsal can help the body stay warmer longer. This can also help mitigate the risk of hypothermia.
- If in doubt, move rehearsal inside to safeguard against potential injury.
Other considerations and mitigation.
- Encourage performers to change out of their performance attire and into clean, dry clothing as damp clothes will make students colder.
- Do not advise students to cup their hands and blow air into the void. This creates moisture in the hands which, when re-exposed to the cold, will cool off making the student more uncomfortable.
- Wear socks that are made of wool and are thick. However, ensure shoes are not too tight-fitting with thicker socks. Like clothing layers, if feet are plastered tightly to the inside of the shoes, moisture has nowhere in which to escape, and frostbite will be more likely to occur.
- Dry and windy conditions associated with cold temperatures can cause the lips to become numb, chapped, and cracked. This can cause extreme discomfort to all band members, but especially wind players who must continue to play their instruments. The resulting pain and numbness diminishes the strength and endurance of a player’s embouchure which can lead to short term technique errors, poor performance (musically and physically), and further injury. Applying quality chap stick or wearing a scarf that can cover the mouth in cold or windy conditions can help prevent against this issue.
- Frozen mouthpieces are also a concern in cold conditions. If possible, students can use plastic mouthpieces as opposed their traditional metal counterparts. However, if this is not possible, it is advised to store the mouthpiece in their pocket when it is not being played.
Hydrate!
- Yes, you still need it, even in cold conditions! While students may not feel thirsty, there is still physical exertion happening. It is vital that in order to replace the fluids lost through sweating, students are given and taking advantage of frequent water breaks. Replacing lost electrolytes is also vital.
Arriving in One Piece.
Proper preparation for cold weather is vital even when the performers and staff members are not yet at rehearsal. This is especially important for winter guard rehearsals and pep band gigs. Parents can help educate their young drivers on safety in cold and winter weather conditions.
- Know winter car maintenance, including proper tires, fluids, and safe driving control.
- Carry an emergency bag filled with extra warm weather accessories, snacks, water, and blanket.
- Cold weather doesn’t always mean snow and ice, but if your region encounters winter weather conditions during the rehearsal season, ensure you or your performer can identify and avoid accidents related to ice.
- Encourage your student to leave home earlier than normal so a safe speed can be maintained.
Learn More.
Taking care of your body and demonstrating preparedness no matter the conditions will pay dividends in the end for you and your program. No matter if you’re wrapping up the marching season, preparing for winter bowl games, or heading to winter guard rehearsal, it is important to heed the weather and armor your body against uncomfortable conditions. For more information on this topic or for additional resources regarding cold weather risks, mitigation, and more, enroll in the free NFHS Band Safety Course!
]]>When it comes to upholding tradition, The LSU Tiger Band is second to none. Throughout its evolution, this 125+ year old band has upheld a standard of excellence and a passion for their fans. Taking root as an 11 member military cadet band begun by 2 students, the Golden Band from Tigerland has grown into a 325-musician powerhouse of Tiger and Louisiana pride. Their dedication to tradition, leadership, and community make them one of the most iconic aspects of college band and Louisiana culture!
Stats.
- Age: 126 years (The Golden Girls are celebrating 60 years as part of the Tiger Band)
- Size: 325 fielded bandsmen + alternates
- % Music Majors: approximately 20-24% (participation in the Tiger Band is not mandatory for music majors)
- Auxiliary Sections: The Golden Girls and the LSU Color Guard
- Marching Style: Pregame showcases a traditional “peak step” while halftime features a more modern “glide step.”
- Time Commitment: Rehearsal Tuesday-Friday for 1.5 hours; 2 hour rehearsal on gameday
- Pregame: Famously remains unchanged since the mid-1950s
Tradition.
Just 4 Notes.
From Victory Hill, to the Golden Girls, to pregame, to conduct in the stands, the LSU Tiger Band stands tall and proud by the traditions that have contributed to its fame. Perhaps the most iconic of these traditions is their march down Victory Hill. Drum Major Taylor Brownfield explains the significance of Victory Hill:
We take great pride in our march from the Band Hall to Tiger Stadium which is formally known as “The March Down Victory Hill”…The drumline plays a cadence sequence that has been a trademark of the section for multiple decades. We make our way down the main road of campus and at a certain point we turn the corner and head down the hill…we play the famous “LSU Pregame” for a sea of LSU fans, and most times you can’t even see where the crowd ends. Many people flood the area just to hear those four famous notes at the beginning of “LSU Pregame” and see the band trot to the PMAC [Pete Maravich Assembly Center]. That experience is so electric it’s hard to describe because the fans are so passionate about the band at LSU.
Mellophone section leader Morgan Easterday expresses that “it’s one of those experiences that is unreal as a performer.” Those four notes get the crowd roaring on the street and in the stadium! Everyone we spoke to in the Tiger Band all had something to say about the hill, those four notes, and the surreal feeling they get as a performer to be a part of such a tradition and spectacle. Easterday, Brownfield, and Band Director Kelvin Jones all express that many times, fans will show up for the march down Victory Hill and not even go to the game…it is an avid part of the tailgate experience. They express that the band plays such a vital role in the spirit of the crowd on gameday, and so many fans come primarily to support the band!
Show Hype Done Right
So what’s the secret to gameday success? SHOW HYPE! A large part of band tradition is preshow section hype, and the Tiger Band is no exception to this! Hype for the Tigers takes place on top of Victory Hill right before the infamous march to the stadium. Here’s how some of the sections hype it out before step off:
- The Mellophones conduct “mello yoga” before every Gameday rehearsal.
- The color guard focuses on maintaining positive attitudes. “Do your best and let it rest,” captain Alexandra Freeman says.
- Section Hype Jams: Trombones play “Hooked on a Feeling” and the Drumline and Tubas co-hype “Earthquake”
The most exciting aspect of gameday is engaging with the fans. Especially at away trips, we love to start cheers with them and bond over our love for the Tigers!”
Morgan Easterday
Mellophone Section Leader
Almost every member of Tiger Band will tell you that their first time marching Pregame in Tiger Stadium is not like anything they have ever experienced before.
Emily Firmin
Picollo Section Leader
[Pregame] is probably the most exciting part of the game for the band because it has sustained through the years which always gets the team and the fan base excited for a win in Death Valley.
Taylor Brownfield
LSU Drum Major
Leadership.
Student Voice and Choice.
By breaking the monotony of drilling the same music and drill every week, we are able to keep morale high and energy alive throughout the entire season because there is always new material to be learned and achieve success in.
Emily Firmin
Piccolo Section Leader
When it comes to empowering young leaders, perhaps the most unique aspect of the Tiger Band is their show design process. Like many major college bands, the Tiger Band performs a new, original halftime show for each game. What’s unique to LSU is that those halftime performances are student designed.
Dr. Jones explains that the student leaders make up the show design committee. He says they begin meeting weekly in February to brainstorm and hash out ideas for themes, music, etc. These ideas are then cut down to around 10. Some themes are combinations of multiple ideas with the feedback of the band staff.
The committee shares these ideas with the band members, who vote for their top picks, and the directors decide the final shows to be performed the following fall. Dr. Jones feels that the students know their fan base best because those fans are their peers. They know what will engage a crowd, and as a committee they strive to fill the show with music that will engage every generation of fans in the stadium.
Becoming a Leader.
In marching band, earning the role of “section leader” is coupled with exciting new challenges and responsibilities. Section leaders are demonstrators, role models, liaisons, and peers. They are the middle-man between the instructional staff’s goals and the needs of their section. In college band, this responsibility can extend into a “junior tech” role as well, with leaders running sectionals and writing choreography.
For the Tiger Band, section leaders are also music techs. All Tiger Band section leaders receive instruction from the staff on how to run sectionals and clean/teach music…and the majority of the band is composed of non-music majors! According to color guard captain Alexandra Freeman, the guard captains write the choreography for each new halftime show as well.
“I try to be intentional with each person so they know I care about them.”
Taylor Brownfield
LSU Drum Major
For Brownfield, the road to drum major was rigorous. Serving as a drum major for a large university marching band is a highly visible role that requires someone with accountability, leadership potential, and showmanship. The audition process begins in November and is announced sometime the next semester. His audition was a week long and consisted of conducting, teaching marching fundamentals, and sitting for an interview with the staff.
He had to demonstrate his knowledge of both forms of marching the Tiger Band performs, his mace technique and knowledge of the pregame routine, and his ability to conduct a handful of traditional and modern marching tunes. After each round, cuts were made. 2019 is Brownfield’s first fall as the Tiger Band drum major, but he has also served as drum major for the Louisiana Stars and Phantom Regiment drum corps. His responsibilities as a Tiger Band drum major consist of leading rehearsals, running and submitting logistics for the staff, and showmanship on game day. But perhaps his favorite aspect of the role is his ability to interact with each member of the band. “I can be relational with everyone and get to know them, while making music,” Brownfield says.
Tiger Band director, Dr. Kelvin Jones
This kind of delegated leadership offers the students stock in their band and provides them with skills that will carry them well into their careers after college. Additionally, it shows that their staff not only cares about the voice of their members, but also trusts the bandsmen to take an active role in continuing the Tiger Band’s standard of excellence and entertainment.
Community.
Mike the Tiger, a community favorite, leads the band on the field.
Community is what gets the Tiger Band roaring! The band has such a positive visibility in the marching community, but more importantly, in Louisiana. “Louisiana is such a musical culture, and the band is a huge part of that,” Dr. Jones states. The band has performed in the Zulu parade, sharing the New Orleans culture, and performs at all home basketball and football games. Additionally, they participated in a joint performance with Northwestern State University where they played the state song together. The Golden Girls perform in many campus, community, and charity functions annually. Further, the march down Victory Hill attracts a large part of the community, with thousands of fans and residents lining the streets to hear those infamous four notes!
The best part is that the fans at LSU are filled with hospitality! Easterday, a Chicago native, states that her friends and family love tailgating and mingling with the locals: “LSU fans have a crazy sense of hospitality, and they will let you EAT!” So where can one go to get a true taste of Baton Rouge? Firmin suggests trying The Chimes for a taste of authentic Louisiana cuisine! If visiting LSU for the first time, it is also recommended to visit Mike the Tiger, LSU’s live mascot. “He’s super friendly and so much fun to watch (especially for the kids),” Firmin adds.
“Never too hot. Never too early.”
LSU is not unique in their rehearsal schedule. Many college bands rehearse multiple times a week in order to learn their new performances and achieve that standard of excellence. “Surprisingly,” Firmin says, “even with the large time commitment…many people…have a higher GPA in the fall semester…we connect and meet other people in our major that we probably would not have met if it was not for Tiger Band.” Brownfield and Dr. Jones echo similar sentiments, explaining that Tiger Band really is a family.
What sets this band apart from the rest is, as Easterday puts it, their “Never too hot. Never too early. We’re just gonna do it” attitude. The Tiger Band holds themselves to an incredibly high standard of excellence. They march everywhere, they remain in uniform, they rehearse hard. “In Louisiana, LSU is THE school; there’s a lot of pride in our visibility,” Easterday states, “and we have an image to uphold.”
On a Final Note.
- CollegeMarching.com highlighted the Golden Band from Tigerland in their video series, Take the Field! Watch a full highlight of the band’s organization here!
- Those interested in learning more about college color guard and the Tiger Band Color Guard are encouraged to attend one of their clinics or visit them at various winterguard competitions!
- Connect with the Tiger Band on social media! @lsutigerband @lsugoldengirls @lsudrumline @lsuclarinets @lsumellogang @taubetanu_lsu @lsu_piccolos @lsucolorguard @lsu_tubas
It’s not easy being a triple threat of band! To maintain tradition, foster lifelong leaders, and support the community is no small undertaking, but the Golden Band from Tigerland does it with more than 125 years of passion and a standard of excellence!
]]>Filling the Field with El Paso
According to Dr. Hunter, this performance was not the intended show for the August 31 game day. He explained that game day community thought it would be “meaningful to celebrate our city and its culture.” The performance was designed to fill the field with the diverse artists that are part of the fabric of the community. He explained that El Paso is a tight knit community, and this was an opportunity to send a strong message that ALL of El Paso was in this fight together. Dr. Hunter envisioned a performance that included the Marching Miners, all local school districts, and local community groups.Answering the Call
The team cast an “all-call” to local community entities, hoping as many as possible would agree to be a part of the performance. Dr. Hunter hoped that as he pulled through for his community, his community would pull through for him.
This all occurred right as our school year began, so the school groups in particular had every viable excuse to decline. Still, the [the community] of El Paso responded to the call and came through for their city.”The community presence on the field was astounding! The halftime roster included 500 marching performers, 1000 including the cheer and dance groups who performed prior to the band’s show! The group itself included:
- 8 mariachi groups
- 7 folklorico groups
- Local spirit groups
- Students from area districts
- A children’s dance studio
- Professional musicians and dancers
Game Day and Beyond
So how does a community overcoming tragedy not only bring the hype to the stands, but also show support to their halftime performers? They roar! Dr. Hunter explained that the performance was “unlike any other I have every experienced.” For the students, the impact of what they were doing didn’t fully hit them until they entered the field at halftime. “The crowd roared before we even began playing,” Dr. Hunter exclaimed! For the band, it was important to be able to respond to the tragedy in some meaningful way. “For us to be able to take the field and perform this traditional music with our community partners,” Hunter explained, “and have our crowd sing and dance along was extremely meaningful for all of us. It has truly changed the course of our program for good.” The community truly pulled through for their band, their football team, and for each other. The shared support lived by the entire stadium DID send a strong. The video of the performance spread worldwide. Dr. Hunter received correspondence from strangers who shared the video on their own channels and talked about the impact the performance had on them personally. That was the most meaningful aspect for him.Stronger Together
Dr. Hunter sums the message up perfectly.We are grateful to have been a small part of the larger community response to this violent act. Someone came to El Paso…to stifle who we are as a community…because they believed that our country is weaker when we are diverse. We know that our city, state, and country are not weakened, but strengthened by our diversity. We celebrate that diversity, because it is a large part of what makes El Paso one of the greatest cities in the United States of America!Insert Image When an individual stands up to adversity with professionalism, resolve, and dignity, it shows courage and strength. When an entire community rallies together to show they are stronger than that adversity, it creates waves that cannot be calmed. The Marching Miners sang their call to arms, and their community sang back in response. They proved that through music, dance, and fellowship, any hardship could be won. It will not fix the wrongs of the past, but will pave the way to a stronger, more hopeful tomorrow, and it is that #bandtogether resolve that shows the true character of a city.
#bandtogether
If you know a band or color guard program that extends beyond their program, that represents their band as leaders in the community, and that is a true steward of the activity, we want to highlight them. You can reach out to us via personal message on Facebook (Director’s Showcase) or Twitter (@DShowcase). Help us spread the #bandtogether story.]]>A New Era
With the evolution of the competitive side of marching band comes a greater demand for staging props that allow a band to perform in uniquely vertical, horizontal, and angular spaces. On the most elite level, top drum corps are pushing the limits of staging each year. Just last year, the Santa Clara Vanguard revolutionized stackable, storage-efficient props that allowed performers to captivate an audience on multiple levels. The Boston Crusaders, in the last 2 years, have used the same rotating, compass-like prop. The Crossmen built a massive sand dial on which members were able to rotate vertically with the force of their own bodies. The Bluecoats have fielded massive chairs and a slide that appears to belong in a skate park. #DCI2019 is no less innovative and exploratory. These innovative, theatrical designs have become a mainstay in the marching band world as well. Design teams are finding unique ways to make their programs and their students’ performances stand out.
Pushing the artistic limits of staging and theatrics is a great way to evolve the activity; but with added layers of complexity on a marching field comes added risk. With the end of the 2019 Drum Corps International Tour season in sight and the competitive marching season in swing, let’s take a look at prop and equipment considerations.
Performer Safety.
When designing for a marching or winter guard show, considerations to performer safety and risk mitigation are paramount. The NFHS Band Safety Course outlines these considerations thoroughly.
- 4 ft. – At this height, it is recommended that safety equipment be used.
- 6 ft. – Many organizations require the use of safety equipment (i.e. guard rails for drum major podiums or harnesses and ground-level padding). In fact, DCI mandates that no performer be placed on a prop higher than 6 ft. without the use of guard rails, and no lifts or stunts may be performed at this height without proper safety considerations.
- Prop measurements need to be taken with wheels & railings accounted for.
- 12 ft. – It is recommended that staging does not exceed this height (including wheels, railings, additional equipment, etc.). Many venues have height maximums, and tunnels or doorways often limit the height of staging props.
- Always consider the abilities of your membership. Ensure that if you desire for them to perform on an elevated space, you have provided the proper training, technique, and safety protocol. The prop isn’t effective if the performer can’t maximize their capabilities on it.
- Ensure all performers, staff, and volunteers are trained on the handling of props and additional equipment. Teach them the wheel systems, how to properly load/unload equipment, and how to safely climb/descend the prop. Additionally, create contingency plans in case of abnormal conditions that may lead to increased risk when handling and performing on the props.
Designers need to consider venue allowances, abilities of their members, and the functionality of the prop itself. Special care and attention need to be given to training performers to use the prop safely and with skill. DCI recently updated their prop policy, which regards the production and manufacturing of props for the safety of the performer (See Appendix 526 in the Policies and Procedures Appendix).
Learn More.
Make your competitive season as safe and generally effective as possible! Your performers will succeed only when they are comfortable with the responsibilities laid before them and when they know their safety is the first priority. For more information on this topic or for additional resources regarding prop and equipment safety, enroll in the free NFHS Band Safety Course!
]]>Heat.
So let’s talk about heat. For anyone who has ever traveled to Texas, you know that the environment is dramatically different depending on the region of Texas you are in. Some areas are hot and extremely dry, whereas others make a person feel like they’re swimming in the air around them. The week following Texas, leading up to the DCI Southeastern Championship in Atlanta, GA (affectionately known as “Hotlanta”) is typically extremely hot and humid as well. No matter if you are an elite level drum corps performer, a high school student attending his/her first band camp, or a staff member facilitating rehearsal, heat is a serious risk. In order to maintain peak performance, members and staff need to understand excessive heat and it’s risks.
National Weather Service heat index chart.
The NFHS Band Safety course outlines guidelines and tools needed to understand heat risk and how to mitigate that risk.
- Concerns directly related to heat include: excessive heat, hydration, nutrition, and rest. Don’t hesitate to modify activities based on changing weather conditions or a pulse check of the ensemble. Having and implementing a heat and hydration plan makes it easier for directors to make these important decisions as conditions are monitored.
- Heat illness occurs when the body reaches a temperature of 104 degrees.
- Ensure all staff members, students leaders, and volunteers can identify the signs of heat-related illnesses.
- Understand the impact of humidity. Perspiration helps the body cool off. When high humidity exists in the air, “perspiration is slower to evaporate.” The higher the humidity, the hotter it feels. This combined temperature + humidity = the heat index.
- Resources for measuring humidity and heat index include: The National Weather Service heat index chart (above), a “Heat Index” app produced by OSHA, and a hygrometer.
- FYI: Turf and asphalt surfaces will be hotter than grass. Consider the rehearsal environment when detailing your hydration and rest plan for rehearsal.
Treat your body well.
Yes, you do need it. In order to maintain optimal performance, every member of the marching ensemble needs to hydrate properly. Additionally, any leader facilitating these rehearsals needs to ensure adequate opportunities to hydrate are budgeted into the rehearsal time. Everyone from parents, to students, to staff needs to ensure that weather conditions are properly heeded.
The best ways to handle rehearsal in hot conditions is to (1) ensure you are properly hydrated, (2) rest your body with adequate sleep or down time, (3) replenish salt stores in the body, and (4) limit the amount of exposure your body has to the sun and heat. But most importantly, be accountable of your role in these conditions! Here are some tips:
Staff Members & Directors
- Have an excessive heat plan that allows for hydration & recovery.
- Hydrate your students often (even if it is just a “gush-n-go”).
- Provide readily available water refill stations (optimizes your rehearsal time and keeps them hydrated).
- Have a shady space available for longer breaks.
- Verbally encourage students to drink & apply sunscreen.
- Model hydration and heat recovery practices (avoid coolers of “staff drinks” that don’t communicate your expectations of them).
- Educate students on proper practice in excessive heat.
Students
- Hydrate the day before a long rehearsal.
- Drink water before bed & first thing in the morning.
- Avoid coffee, soda, & sugary juices the morning of a rehearsal.
- Hydrate on EVERY rest break.
- Secure a large enough water jug so you don’t have to run inside during every water break.
- Avoid chugging ice cold water.
- During meals, replenish salt lost through sweating with an electrolyte beverage.
- Wear clothing that covers the body, wear a hat & sunglasses, & rest in shade or air conditioning whenever possible.
- SLEEP!
Parents, Leaders, & Volunteers
- Encourage your sections to be self-accountable.
- Ensure your student leaves the house with ENOUGH water (do a water check).
- Volunteer to be on “water station duty.”
- Ask your director how you can get involved and help students.
- Ensure your student is sleeping & recovering enough.
- Educate students on proper practice in excessive heat.
- Identify students that are “toughing it out” and have this conversation with them.
- Model the expectations you have for your student.
Learn more.
Make your band camp and summer tour seasons as efficient as possible. If you take care of your body properly and proactively, it will pay dividends in the end. For more information on this topic or for additional resources regarding heat illness, excessive heat, and more, enroll in the free NFHS Band Safety Course! ]]>The Bluecoats are no exception to this work. Their transparent and accessible Health and Wellness Manual ensures that all leaders have the ability and the expectation to uphold the highest standard of safety. Mike Scott, CEO for the Bluecoats, took some time to outline the policies that ensure the corps operates in a safe environment.
Catching Enough Zzzzzs.
Bluecoats puts a focus on proper training, preparation, and treatment for our performing athletes. We’ve developed programs, partnerships, and policies to ensure that our community is, first-and-foremost, healthy.
As if rehearsing for 6-12 hours a day isn’t demanding enough, asking members to live off of a tour bus for 60 days is a lot. Many will say they sleep well enough on the bus, but in reality, athletes need adequate, uninterrupted sleep each night in order to maintain peak performance. In fact, teens require between 8-10 hours of sleep each night in order to function at their highest level the next day.
The NFHS explains that a proper amount of sleep directly contributes to performance and mitigates risk to the individual performer in many ways including:
- Enhanced growth and recovery post-training
- Reduced fatigue
- Improved cognitive performance and mood state
- Reduced risk of injury
- Enhanced power performance
Down time or “floor time” is a coveted block of time to anyone who marches drum corps. It refers to the amount of time a group as to sleep horizontally at a housing site between travel on the bus and the start of the days rehearsals. With the drum corps model as it stands, organizations have a great task in front of them as they determine the appropriate amount of floor time members require each night.
The Bluecoats’ formula for determining floor time requires at least 50% of bus time be given back to participants in floor time. Therefore, students can expect anywhere from 5-8 hours of floor time every night. Scott explains that “this ensures that our minimum amount of time on the floor is always sufficient, and that on nights with extended drives, they actually get more sleep.” Further, the Bluecoats typically do not begin a day until 8 AM as well.
Prepare. Disseminate. Practice.
Emergency Actions Plans exist to empower leaders of all levels with the rules and tools necessary to maintain a safe environment for participants. The NFHS Band Safety Course discusses thoroughly the purpose and function of an emergency action plan. On an obvious level, the plan ensures that there are no questions as to procedures regarding weather, injury, etc. Additionally, having a plan that is practiced prior to the start of the season empowers leaders on all levels to take action when action is needed. From captain, to director, Emergency Action Plans save lives.
The Bluecoats’ Emergency Action Plan thoroughly details the steps necessary to mitigate risk no matter the situation. According to Scott, the plan is “kept in conspicuous places throughout the fleet, including on every vehicle and as near to the rehearsal fields and sites as we can.” The plan is also carried by members of all leadership teams. Empowering team members down to the student leader level establishes a culture that all members of the organization are accountable when it comes to safety.
Additionally, the Bluecoats have an established medical professional team that works on site with the corps at all times throughout the summer. The team consists of a certified Athletic trainer and 2 AT interns both of which are currently studying for their AT certification. All members of the medical team keep a copy of the EAP on their person.
School districts generally have Emergency Action Plans that have been written and approved by school boards. These plans are disseminated to all classroom teachers and staff members. It is imperative however, that directors take the time to identify any risks specific to band and color guard that may not be outlined in a districts plan. Additionally, ensuring that all staff and student leaders (especially if they are not trained by the district) are informed on the policies of the program and can take mitigating action as necessary will create both trust within the organization and a greater sense of safety no matter who is in front of a student group.
The Discussion Continues.
As the marching arts becomes more physically demanding, all parties involved need to ensure that our standards match the demands we are asking of our students. As directors, ensuring that all members of your staff are informed and practiced in the policies and procedures required within the program and the district is a fantastic place to start. Additionally, allowing student leaders into that crucial training only ensures further that the needs of the students are fully met. The Bluecoats set a standard for how to treat members from beginning to end, and that priority increases the chance that members can stay physically healthy well into their futures.
]]>Servant Leadership.
Empowering our students who are ready to take on more formal teaching opportunities has been invaluable for those who will go on to teach in various work environments.David Lofy
Corps Director, Madison Scouts
If there is one thing that sets the Madison Scouts apart from other organizations, it is their dedication to developing leaders on every level. Incepted in 2015, their Forward Leadership program was “designed to encapsulate the unspoken Scout’s leadership philosophy with the intent of boiling it down to actionable goals.” David Lofy, corps director for the Scouts says that the most powerful aspect of the program is that it allows for student-centered learning, a sentiment shared within the educational community as well. Students have opportunities to consider diverse perspectives and co-design/facilitate sessions alongside their staff and fellow leaders. The 2019 servant leader team took part in developing the year’s curriculum by beginning with creating a shared vision. They met in Madison just before spring training where they decided on a set of values and goals that would drive the Forward Leadership sessions and the summer season’s development. Further, they participated in sessions focused on developing personal identity, adapting to corps culture upgrades, giving/receiving feedback, and empowering others.
2019 Corps Values
UNITY
GROWTH MINDSET
2019 Shared Corps Goals
HOLD YOURSELF ACCOUNTABLE
STRIVE FOR EXCELLENCE
INVEST IN RELATIONSHIPS
We refer to our student leadership team as ‘servant leaders’, as it aligns with our philosophy… We also firmly believe that every member of the corps carries leadership abilities that are utilized in different ways based on their role in the corps. While our servant leaders may be more vocal on and off the field, they actively look for opportunities to empower and lift up the members around them.David Lofy
Corps Director, Madison Scouts
Lofy explained that students who have participated in this program have echoed similar sentiments: that they appreciate the practice-based nature of activities and that it “stays away from feel-good phrases and focuses on the development of practical skills.” The program’s ultimate goal is to help students engage in who they are, who they can be, and how they relate to diverse perspectives from others. With student-led development, and a standard and vision set by students, they are well on their way to creating amazing leaders for tomorrow!Improving Standards.
In addition to the direct member leader training and full corps development, the Madison Scouts have established a comprehensive health and wellness team that travels with the corps. According to Dann Peterson, Forward Performing Arts programs director, this team is “composed of the program’s director, corps director, two assistant directors, lead athletic trainer, assistant athletic trainer, athletic training intern, nutrition specialist and outside consultants including athletic trainer, nurse practitioner and assistant professor in mental health.” The team works together to create and carry out action plans related to the health of the corps, from medical to dietary plans. They have helped to shape the policies that the Madison Scouts have refined over the years, including the corps’ nutrition, hydration, and flex time policy.
The NFHS Band Safety course details the nutrition levels needed to maintain an athletic capacity like drum corps requires. They recommend focusing on eating lean proteins, fruits, vegetables and whole grains “to ensure the body is prepared for training.” They also recommend focusing on protein-rich foods within an hour of activity to aid in faster recovery. According to Peterson, the nutritionist and athletic trainer have crafted a 12 day rotating menu. This menu focuses on creating an athlete’s diet with “optimal levels” of calories, protein, fat, and carbohydrates. Their fourth meal focuses on replenishing salt and electrolyte contents. In terms of hydration, the corps’ policies state that students should be replenishing fluids often and proactively. The ‘Hydration’ section of their policy manual specifically outlines the following:
- Student should consume 17-20 oz. of any liquid before the first rehearsal of the day.
- Students should consume a minimum of a half gallon of water for every two hours of rehearsal.
- During meal breaks, students should consume 17-20 oz. of any liquid, preferably with electrolytes. Salty snacks are also recommended to help replenish salt stores in the body.
- All students will refill their water jugs prior to leaving a housing location and consume water throughout travel.
A Little More R&R.
Just as important as nutrition and hydration is the proper rest of a drum corps or marching band. The body needs to time to physically recover from long days of marching, dancing, and traveling. Having a proper rest and sleep plan is essential to the continued safety and recovery of a drum corps. The Madison Scouts have taken strides toward creating a sleep and flex time plan. They emphasize that even though the drum corps touring model present massive challenges regarding proper sleep, it is still a “critical component” in the success of an athlete.
The NFHS course explains that teens need between 8-10 hours of sleep every night because it is the “single most performance enhancing adjustment.” They explain that proper amounts of sleep directly contribute to performance and mitigate risk of the individual in many ways including:
- Enhanced growth and recovery post-training
- Reduced fatigue
- Improved cognitive performance and mood state
- Reduced risk of injury
- Enhanced power performance
Madison Scouts’ Down Time Policy
If travel time + down time is less than 4 hours, the total amount of time for all rest must be 9.5 hours. If travel + down time is greater than or equal to 4 hours, the total amount of time for all rest must be 10 hours. Additionally, down time (also known as floor time) must range between 2 and 8 hours. Further, the Scouts remain transparent regarding adding rehearsal time to their schedules. Their manuel states that “on rare occasions, it may be necessary to add rehearsal time, in lieu of down time, in order to ensure performance confidence or complete a change to the program. In these situations, the acting caption heads may add flex rehearsal time with the following parameters.” This time is detailed to be no more than 30 min per day with a maximum for 1 hour per week. If flex time is added to the schedule, then that time must be given back to the members within a week. In short, anything they ask extra of their membership, they pay back in full in an amount of time that will aid in optimal recovery. In an effort to prioritize self-care, the Scouts have upgraded their language from “free days” to “rest and recovery days.” Lofy explained that “As they push themselves in one of the most intense youth activities available, we hope our students leave understanding how to both push themselves to their performance limits while remaining in-tune to their body’s many needs.” Their schedule rotates now between a week involving one R&R day and one laundry block off. Additionally, the students are encouraged to engage in R&R that will allow them to return to rehearsals fully recharged both emotionally and physically. These kinds of student-first practices allow for optimization of performance on the field, but also encourage them to embody this in their daily practices. It let’s them know that their presence in the organization matters.The Discussion Continues.
The Madison Scouts have taken massive strides in opening the lines of communication between admin, staff, and membership. Through these open discussions, their goal is simple: to create a “a staff/student culture that prioritizes and dialogues more regularly about student health and wellness.” The more comfortable an ensemble feels communicating their needs to the staff, and the more comfortable administration teams feel opening these conversations with their membership, the tighter knit the organizations will become. Creating positive culture depends on the leaders who set it and the individuals who buy in to the right “stuff.” And buy in can only be achieved when everyone is willing to listen to one another from Day 1.]]>
Boston Crusaders 2019 Spring Training. Photo credit: Adriane Baker
The Boston Crusaders are a prime example of educating and caring for each member based on their needs and backgrounds. The Crusaders have gone to great lengths over the years to establish this kind of environment for their members and give them the best experience possible. Chris Holland, Executive Director of the Boston Crusaders, sums it up perfectly: “The bigger picture benefits are that when we focus on safety, health, and wellness it forces us to be efficient with our time. It…drives preparation…It is not a hindrance.” When it comes to their membership, the Crusaders travel with a wealth of knowledge and an army of experts behind them. Holland shared with us some of the Boston Crusader’s best practices.
An Army Behind Them
For the Boston Crusaders, there is no Band-Aid fix to the health of their membership. It’s about injury prevention and physical maintenance before and during the season. It’s about identifying areas of need in each member and providing a personalized plan that strengthens their bodies and mitigates risk of injury. So how does this corps accomplish a medical training plan for 160 young marchers? A fully-staffed medical team. The team is made up of an MD, a physical and occupational therapist, at least 1 certified trainer, a PA, and at least 2 RNs, all of which rotate throughout the season. Their MD is present throughout the audition process. She conducts a whole scale diagnostic assessment of each member using a rubric created by the MD and the corps. Assessments include:- A mobility test, posture assessment, and an understanding of the member’s medical history.
- A baseline performance assessment including a timed 1 mile run and timed sit-ups and push-ups assessment.
Boston Crusaders 2019 Spring Training. Photo credit: Adriane Baker
[Drum corps] is a huge investment on the member’s part, and it’s the saddest thing when a kid has to go home after a week due to injury.
Chris Holland
Exec. Director, BAC
Members that present deficiencies in any tests are given individualized training plans that will help them mitigate any risk of injury. In fact, all members are given feedback and advised training based on the results of the assessment. Progress is monitored throughout the winter, and each member has their own health profile by move-ins that is kept and updated by the MD. Many of these kids come from other corps. If they’ve had injuries during corps (or even marching band) in the past, they know what a summer of discomfort feels like. As a result, they are very receptive to these training plans, Holland expressed. “It’s a huge investment on the member’s part,” he stated, “and it’s the saddest thing when a kid needs to go home after a week due to injury.” Members use their social channels to track and share successes and milestones, creating a community of marchers who value healthy progress. This is the Boston Crusaders’ third year of implementing this medical platform.In addition to the ongoing wellness efforts, the Boston Crusaders have also offered a 5 part First Aid/CPR/AED course through the American Heart Association called the AHA HeartCode program. The training was offered thanks to two members of the BAC Board of Directors. This course was offered to all levels of leadership in the corps. Certified leaders include a drum major, 3 color guard members, the tour manager, visual caption manager, and guard caption manager. Additionally, a front ensemble member was previously certified through this course. Holland stated that this variety of certified leaders, from staff to student, provides a “good cross section covering the 2-3 rehearsal fields and spaces we occupy.”
H2GO
Boston Crusaders 2019 Spring Training. Photo credit: Adriane Baker
In January of this year, DCI partnered with the NFHS and Varsity University, collaborating to create a Band Safety Course. The course has been endorsed by DCI, WGI, and MFA. It addresses many risks marchers face and how directors can effectively mitigate those risks by implementing best practices. One of the biggest challenges marchers face is exposure to heat-related injuries and dehydration. Humidity and heat index are 2 major contributing factors to this. According to the NFHS course, “when the humidity in the air is high, perspiration is slower to evaporate which can cause participants to overheat.” The heat index is the result of the actual temperature and level of humidity. It’s what the environment “feels like.” Also, the course explains that during dehydration, a lack of fluids decreases the volume of blood flowing throughout the body. This leads to exhaustion, fatigue, confusion, and all other symptoms of dehydration. It explains that hydration “should begin before a participant feels thirsty” and should continue after the participant has stopped exercising.
National Weather Service heat index chart.
The Boston Crusaders rely on their medical team and the chain of command to identify unsafe weather situations and for advising hydration practices. The medical team charts the weather conditions and follows a corps-wide protocol for issuing alerts. Holland explained that air horns are used in the case of extreme weather emergencies and are a signal for everyone to evacuate the field. To track heat index, the corps uses a wet bulb thermometer. Additionally, they track the cumulative effects of multi-day weather stents, like those seen during the deep South July tour. These stents are the hardest to cope with, expressed Holland. The key to not feeling the effects is to take precautionary measures up front. Members are notified via their Slack channel of upcoming weather conditions and are reminded to care for themselves accordingly. Proper care includes increasing hydration, taking in extra electrolytes, and resting properly.
Per the corps’ protocol, participants should be intaking 7 oz. of water every 10-15 min during an event/rehearsal, and rehydration should happen within 2 hours of exercise concluding. Holland expressed that this is a best practice used by many of the drum corps. “We all borrow from each other,” he stated. The organizations compete on the field,” he stated. But off the field, they’re open books of information. Instead of reinventing the wheel, the corps communicate with each other to share best practices.
Boston Crusaders 2019 Spring Training. Photo credit: Adriane Baker
Holland shared the corps heat and hydration policy, and a complete version can be found here.
Prop Safety
Anytime a prop is used in the performance space, considerations need to be made. Designers need to consider venue allowances, abilities of their members, and the functionality of the prop itself. Special care and attention need to be given to training performers to use the prop safely and with skill. DCI recently updated their prop policy, and Holland was on the committee that drafted the latest version. The policy regards the production and manufacturing of props for the safety of the performer (See Appendix 526 in the Policies and Procedures Appendix). These regulations reflect the best practices outlined in the Band Safety Course. The course explains that safety considerations should be made for any prop exceeding 4 feet and that when measuring props, include the height with any wheels, guard rails, and platforms. The newest iteration of the DCI protocol includes clauses regarding maximum height, at what point guard rails are required, and addresses added risk usage such as lifts, leaps, and stunts atop the props.
Boston Crusaders 2019 Spring Training. Photo credit: Adriane Baker
The Crusaders’ props are manufactured by Global Scenic Services, a company that produces staging for major clients such as Broadway, the American Theatre Ballet, and Victoria Secret. Their props conform to OSHA and DCI standards with handrails, safety pads, and tether systems used when needed. Further, the props come with pre and post assembly checklists for additional safety measures, have their own hauling truck, and are staffed with prop-specific personnel.
The end goal of these procedures and safety measures is simple: to “minimize the need to have member participation in the loading, unloading, and daily setup of the props.” This process could potentially harm participants as accidents do occur, but having a thorough set of procedures for the handling of props mitigates the risk of participant, staff, and volunteer injury.