For today's example of brass and movement, I'm looking at the Drum and Bugle Corps. For this post, we will only be discussing the present....we will discuss history at a later time. Here in the US, drum and bugle corps are the summer activity for many high school and college musicians. The groups work on a show and then compete throughout the summer as they travel around the country. These groups differ from marching bands in that they are only brass, percussion, and color guard. What does the movement do for this type of group?
*The musicians march (also run and dance) around the field to create a non-stop visual treat. With all sorts of lines, patterns, and images, the group can make moving-art with people. The uniforms and the color guard add color and variety to the shapes.
*The music that is being played is aiding the color guard and dancers with their movement.
*The movement is so continuous and strenuous that it gives the musicians a "performance rush." This is a side effect that makes the performance more enjoyable for the performers. It is like an adrenaline high.
*All of the aspects of this performance provide entertainment for the audience. Movement is a major component of the entertainment value. You don't go to see a drum corps stand there.
Here is a video of a US drum corps called the Blue Devils.
Drum and bugle corps also exists in other countries. Here is a video that I believe is from Japan.
Very cool, I had no idea there were drum and bugle corps in other countries. Have you looked into a group called Blast? I'm not sure if they are still around, but it is pretty much drum corp performed on stage.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.blasttheshow.com/
I totally agree. Drum Corps is THE epitome of brass in motion; and the best part is that they still can make GREAT music (depending on the level of the corps) even though it is in a 'marching band' setting.
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