An Olympian’s Playbook for Marching Band Success!
Chasing a big dream, whether it’s becoming an Olympian or leading a successful marching band season, can be grueling. One invaluable lesson comes from filmmaker and runner Alexi Pappas, who shared crucial wisdom she learned from her coach: the Rule of Thirds. This...
A Message to New Band Parents: Why Marching Band Shows Matter More Than You Might Think
As a former high school band director and now a full-time music arranger and composer, I’ve spent most of my career immersed in the world of marching band shows. I’ve written them, taught them, rehearsed them, and lived through the emotional arcs of hundreds of...
Learn Marching Band Drill Fast: 4 Game-Changing Hacks!
Learning drill is fundamental to any marching band performance, requiring precision, coordination, and practice. Getting your band members to move in perfect synchronization across the field can be challenging, but it’s achievable with the right strategies. In this...
Transform Your Marching Band: 13 Must-Try Tips for Instant Improvement!
Marching Band rehearsals can be... well... a lot. And you, as the teacher leading the rehearsal, have a lot of demands placed on you! Here are 13 tips to improve your rehearsals that you can implement today! Students must have all the things! Nothing slows down a...
Santa Clara Vanguard Design Team talks “The aVANt GUARD”
Members of the design team explain the concepts, the use of space, and colors, and the risk of it all. With Dan Morrison, Michael Gaines, Paul Rennick, Andy Toth, and Evan VanDoren. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_rdaQjnbWak
New Marching Band Show for 2025! “From Frost to Flowers”
Award-winning marching band show featuring the music of The Cinematic Orchestra, Sergei Prokofiev, Dimitri Shostakovich, & David Holsinger!
Unleashing Potential: Embracing a Growth Mindset in Marching Band
Marching band is not only about playing music and marching in formation, but also an activity that requires dedication, teamwork, and personal growth. Moreover, one key factor that can greatly impact the success and development of individuals in marching band is...
Unplug to Recharge: 10 Vital Reasons Music Educators Need Rest!
As music educators, the end of the school year often brings a unique blend of exhaustion and a need for renewal. The intensity of teaching music, with its rehearsals, performances, and constant demand for creativity, can be particularly draining. Here are ten powerful...
New Marching Band Show for 2025! “Here We Grow”
Award-winning marching band show featuring the music of Michael Markowski, Karl Jenkins, and Steven Bryant!
Marching Band: Sport or Art?
This article explores the ongoing debate on whether marching band qualifies as a sport, discussing its history, physical demands, choreography, competition dynamics, and advocating for its recognition as a sport. Introduction to the Debate on Marching Band as a Sport...
Unlocking Creativity: How Commissioning Music Fuels Innovation
Commissioning music is crucial for expanding the repertoire and promoting new works. It brings fresh perspectives and innovation to the music industry. By commissioning new pieces, individuals and organizations have the opportunity to support and collaborate with...
New Marching Band Show for 2025! “My Human Heart”
Award-winning marching band show featuring the music of Philip Glass, Michael Daugherty, Jacob Collier, Coldplay, Kevin Day, & Frank Sinatra!