How to Keep a Marching Band Together in a Parade

Parade marching is different from field marching in a number of ways. Although there are some exceptions, parade marching usually does not entail creating geometrical formations, such as those used in a half time show or competition. Instead, the band is organized into columns, called files, and rows, called ranks. It can be a challenge to keep the band together in a parade. However, with practice and discipline, it can be done.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Marching band
• Parade venue

Keep a Marching Band Together in a Parade

1. Choose a pace or step size, between 22 and 30 inches and communicate it to the band. It is essential that everyone uses the same step size, or the band will quickly be out of sync with one another.

2. Evaluate the rhythmic abilities and marching discipline of each band member and place your best members at the front of each file and at the end of each rank. They will serve as markers for the other band members to align themselves with, or "guide to."

3. Stand at the head of the band and walk backward in front of them as they rehearse the routine. Call out to band members who are straying from their files.

4. Walk alongside the band as they rehearse the routine, keeping pace with them. Call out to band members who get ahead of their ranks or fall behind.

5. Get the band together and run a dress rehearsal the day before the parade. When possible, opt to run your routine at the parade venue, or at least on a similar surface.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure you have a strong percussive element to your routine when marching in a parade. A solid drum cadence is especially important for keeping all the band members in step throughout the parade. In the absence of a cadence, the drum line can use a click or rim shot to mark the odd beats, thus keeping everyone in step.
• In between songs, use a roll to make sure everyone knows what measure the band is on.
• Come up with a special signal that the lead drummer can use to indicate that band members are out of step or out of place. Since the drummer won't be able to call out specific band members during the parade, all members of the band should be trained so that at the sound of the special signal, they check their step and their guides and realign themselves if necessary.
• Prepare your marching band members in advance for dealing with obstructions in their path. While organizers do their best to keep the parade path clear, there are bound to be debris, especially if it is a street parade. Plastic cups, dropped batons and drumsticks, lost shoes and even small children may find their way into the street during a parade. Have a plan for encountering such obstacles, with the goal being to get back into rank and file, and in step, with as little disruption as possible.

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