THE NEW ALBANY HIGH SCHOOL COLOR GUARD PREPARS FOR PERFORMANCES AND COMPETITIONS.
Factors include tone, intonation, balance, blend and musicianship. Competitive marching bands often require complete memorization of the music, allowing for more complex formations and movements.
“ IT IS A CHALLENGE TO KEEP THE STUDENT MENTALLY READY EVERY PERFORMANCE.”
The band also receives a score assessing the general effect the band has produced. This category looks at the overall impact the performance creates for the audience. Judges particularly look at how the music and the visual elements coordinate. While the percussion and auxiliary aspects of the band are not individually judged, their presence impacts the general effectiveness of the band.
In addition to the music, a band is judged on the visual performance as well. Choreography, drill, marching techniques, body movement and overall visual presentation are evaluated.
Harnessing the competitive nature of marching band members is not terribly difficult.
“ I don’ t believe I have ever found a kid who isn’ t competitive,” said Jeffersonville High School Director of Bands Briston Hatchell, who is in his 12th year of teaching music.
PAGE NO. 8 NEWS AND TRIBUNE SPORTS MAGAZINE NOV / DEC 2025