Hi guys! After thinking about it for some time I've decided that I want to try out for my highschool's colorguard in marching band. I marched as an instrument this last fall so I'm already familiar with marching, drill charts, etc. I know there is a weeklong workshop where the girls trying out learn the basics before the actual audition. The thing is, I'm just wondering if I would be at some kind of disadvantage trying out what is normally girls' 2nd year of colorguard (I would be trying out with incoming freshman and I would be a sophmore) or if there are any exercises, workouts, or ways I can start practicing for the flag tryouts (practicing spins, makedue flags, etc.?). Thanks in advance!
2006-11-29 10:24:15 · 7 answers · asked by Anonymous in Arts & Humanities ➔ Performing Arts
I'd suggest getting lessons or help after school with a friend or someone you know in the guard. That way, they know you have a genuine interest and you have a foot up on all the freshman.
2006-11-29 10:40:50 · answer #1 · answered by cognitospud 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would definitely get with someone prior to the audition and work on equipment skills. You would be ahead of the game as well if you took some dance classes at a local dance studio. There are two main elements to guard - equipment and movement. The equipment skills will definitely be taught, but the dance element is something that takes a little more time to develop.
I would also check with your local drum corps - if there is a division 2 or 3 corps that needs colorguard members. Sometimes they are willing to take students that haven't spun before.
Also - the larger corps in the area often do community workshops for students in the area for a fee.
I don't think you'll have a disadvantage - if anything it's an advantage being a sophomore. You'll be more of an asset to the group!
2006-12-05 04:28:46 · answer #2 · answered by Stephanie H 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You'll be just fine auditioning with the freshman and against the people who did it last year. Remember, just because they did it last year it doesn't mean that they did a good job. The people judging may be happy to see some new talent ready to join the squad!!! Plus, your year of marching experience puts you ahead of the freshman. I think you're in a great position!
Get in shape so that you're ready for practices and you are flexible. If your team is strong in the dance area, take a dance class or get some good dance tapes to learn from. As you know, rhythm is a big thing for guard, so get out there and dance.
You can make a cheap flag by buying a cheap wooded dowel at the hardware store (of the appropriate diameter and length) and staple gunning on a piece of cheap, floaty fabric. Wrap it with electrical tape so you have a nice surface to grab. If you're serious about this and price isn't an issue you can easily buy real flag supplies online. However, here's a trick: Wooden poles are heavier, so if you practice with a wooden one, you'll build up muscles so that when you convert to aluminum or fiberglass your moves will be fantastic (and easy). You'll actually have to pull back.
If you have a tape of last year's show, watch it and learn the colorguard routine. Practice the routine. If you have a colorguard friend from the last show, ask them to practice with you. If you don't have a tape of your show and/or a friend that wants to work with you; get a tape of DCI and learn their routines. Colorguard moves aren't that hard - the hard part is putting all of the moves together so that they look good!
Tape yourself and watch. Critique your performance and make improvements. You'll be ready to go when audition time comes around. Focus on release moves (tosses, throws, spins) because that's where most people make mistakes in auditions.
2006-12-03 03:32:07 · answer #3 · answered by amyopera123 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Depending on what part of the country you are in you can find a ton of information about Colorguard.
I have been in or teaching marching bands since 1980. You shouldn't let the fact you are second year rookie deter you. You already have the experience of marching in your band. You are already ahead of any freshman. Go to your guard instructor at your school and ask them for any recommendations and what the tryouts consist of.
2006-11-29 10:35:10 · answer #4 · answered by SanDiegoBob 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
At my school no matter what grade your in you get tried out with the freshman because it's your first time. But you should start practicing your spins and your posture. Also always remeber to smile and stand tall. Try asking one of the girls to help you on your spins. Good lUck.
2006-12-01 04:09:49 · answer #5 · answered by chedderapples 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I often end up submitting the same thing on other sites
2016-08-23 11:41:26 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Would be interested in knowing more about this too
2016-08-08 20:25:14 · answer #7 · answered by ? 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋