Finding the right music

Again, I am not taking credit for what I am about to post. It was an email sent to me by our circuits Education Director.

Finding music for a Winter Guard show is always difficult for me. Every once in a while a season comes where ONE song jumps out above all the others and I know that is the one for my guard and for that season. However, most of the time that is not the case. My iTunes has a play list named "show ideas" and has a ridiculous amount of songs in it. The songs are very random, not sticking to one theme or mood, but they all speak to me in at least one way.

And there is my problem...

I have a habit of always choosing songs that speak to ME emotionally when I know there are many other elements I need to consider if I want to have a successful season. One of my close winter guard drill writing and designing friends says he is the complete opposite. The emotion is never what hits him. He and I now try to put our 2 brains together to help balance out our song selections. And THAT is where this article comes in handy. It really helped me and I hope it helps you in seasons to come (since everyone has already chosen their show for the 2010 season).


MUSIC

10 EASY QUESTIONS WITH A BIG PAYOFF

I'm going to ask you to approach this all important design choice with a list of questions to ask yourself (and your staff) as you wade through a million options.

• QUESTION 1: What kind of mood do you want to put your audience in?

Excited, nostalgic, sad, happy, energized, lethargic, fascinated, surprised, and the list goes on and on. Answer this first and it sets a road map toward your goal. Remember, one of the most commonly shared response mechanisms in people is their reaction to music and sound.

• QUESTION 2: Do you want to grab your audience immediately with a big effect

or do you want to build into it? This will also help you as you consider the opening of each tune you listen to.

• QUESTION 3: Does the music provide a great ending????

You always want to leave the audience "wanting more." Do you want the audience to be left "holding their breath" as you conclude, or do you want them screaming and on their feet?

• QUESTION 4: Does the music guide you smoothly through the "dance of design"

as you conceptualize the show? Can you visualize each segment as you listen?

• QUESTION 5: Does the music provide contrast and contouring

so that your show takes the viewer on a joy ride of highs and lows? Can you visualize those impact points and strong resolutions?

• QUESTION 6: Does the music have interesting depth of orchestration?

When considering a specific tune, how many different arrangements/artists do you research before making a decision? Have you considered combining different versions of the same tune?

• QUESTION 7: Does the music suggest a specific style or "look"

and can you assure that your students can carry it off?

• QUESTION 8: How many other groups have used this music

and will it set you up for a direct comparison?? It shouldn't but I promise you that there are some tunes that need to be "retired" for the next decade. It's risky to pick a tune used by a highly memorable guard.

• QUESTION 9: Is this tune similar or different from what you've done for the past couple of
years?

Is it time to redefine yourself? Redefinition will keep the kids interested and broaden their skill
sets as performers and challenge you as designers!!!!

• QUESTION 10: Can the performers relate to your vision through this music

and do you have the knowledge to teach them how to interpret their role and character?


Once you've settled on this year's show music, consider how you might embellish it with any special effects or layer it with other arrangements to provide a more unique sound. This is ALL ABOUT YOU and your creative thought process as you set up your show for the best possible production value.

Musical choice may very well be the most important choice you will make.
Musical choice and visual style contribute largely to set you apart from the many others in your class. Strive to be remembered as you create your program. Create a musical sound track that will showcase your best assets as you create your visual illustration.