Disney Extra Credit - Fall 2013 - (Page 40)

the visual musicians provided by WGI Sport of the Arts T he word “musician” automatically evokes thoughts of a variety of instruments, vocalists or composers. While these individuals bring music to our ears, the auxiliary section, or color guard of the marching band, translates the music for our eyes. They use a variety of methods to create a visual reflection of the music, which completes a total sensory package that turns a memorable performance into a show you’ll never forget. It’s important to know that the members of the color guard do not solely rely on pieces of equipment. WGI Sport of the Arts’ Director of Color Guard Development, Shirlee Whitcomb explains, “They are the actors who portray a role that tells the story and draws in the audience.” In order to make this work, the color guard performers must bring a passion and enthusiasm that interprets the music and makes the equipment come alive. An acting exercise is cross-training into the performance level, like technique class is cross-training for the equipment aspect. Often times, these exercises allow the group to bond and become a stronger team, allowing the members to feel more comfortable in front of the audience. This is when the music becomes a fourdimensional experience. Since music already provides a great deal of phrasing, meter and tempo, it’s imperative that the auxiliary members incorporate this through their bodies as well as the equipment to complement the drama of the story. The speed and form of the staging or drill of the guard is the first step to emphasize these dynamics. They can cover the entire performance area to build on strong musical statements, or move to a smaller dense block for intricate moments. Combine the right dance style with the right musical genre and performance becomes more believable. Choreography of the movement, combined with the right equipment, becomes the backbone of the melody. The color guard’s use of equipment supports their program in a myriad of combinations. Mock sabres and rifles are recognized for their precision and strength. Rifles emphasize the aggressive and bold musical statements, while the sabres are typically featured during ballads for their graceful ability. The flag line, or “silks” as they are often 40 | N extra credit

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Disney Extra Credit - Fall 2013

Disney Extra Credit - Fall 2013
Contents
Welcome
Walt Disney, Educator
Career Spotlight
A Touching Reunion
Engineering for Today
Career Spotlight
Research and Storytelling
Center Stage
Disney Dreamers Academy
The Path to Newsies
Creativity in the Classroom
Educational Field Trips
Inspiring Through Theatre
Festival Disney Turns 10
New Learning Opportunities
The Visual Musicians
Beyond the Bright Lights
Music Education Excellence
Focus on the Future
Poetic License
Spotlight On: The Disney Honors
Disney Performing Arts Alumni
Mickey’s Education Adventure
Disney Performing Arts Opportunities
Disney Youth Education Series Opportunities
Students Get the “Scoop”
The Fundamentals of Finance
Advertisers and Thank You
Travel Planner Honors
Mickey’s Mind Teasers

Disney Extra Credit - Fall 2013

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