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East Carolina University
Marching Pirates Drumline
2015
2016
Policy Handbook
"The Sound of Pirate Nation"
Preface
This policy handbook is but part of our program here
with the ECU Marching Pirates Drumline. Please do
not forget to read through the Technique Packet as
well. With that being said, this policy book exists to
(hopefully) answer any questions you have as it
pertains to all of the stuff outside of how and what
we play. Please read through this so we are all on the
same page as we enter this season.
Staff:
Colin Williams
Head Drumline Instructor
Aaron Kingsberry
Drumline Instructor
Leadership
Alex Robb
Snares
Taylor Lowe
Quads/Tenors
John Kuhlman
Bass Drums
TBA
Cymbals
About the Instructors
Colin Williams
ECU Head Drumline Instructor
A native of Raleigh, NC, Colin serves as the Drumline instructor for the
East Carolina Marching Pirates. As an educator, Colin served as the
head percussion instructor and arranger at Riverside High School in
Williamston, NC (2011-2014). At Riverside HS, he helped the drumline
compete nationally in the US Bands circuit. The percussion section
placed consistently within the top five within Open AA Class, and
medaled twice. He has also served as an instructor for such programs as
Havelock High School and Cary High School.
As a performer, Colin has been a part of such ensembles as the Blue
Knights Drum and Bugle Corps (DCI-World Class Finalist) and the
GMU Indoor Drumline (WGI-Independent World Class), as well as
serving as a section leader for both ForzaEAST Independent (WGIIndependent Open Class) and the East Carolina Marching Pirates.
Colin currently holds a B.M. in Music Education and a B.M. in Music
Composition and Theory from East Carolina University, where he
studied under Jonathan Wacker and Christopher Nappi. In his studies,
Colin performed with the ECU Percussion Ensemble and ECU World
Percussion Ensemble, and served as the principal percussionist/timpanist
for the ECU Symphonic Orchestra and ECU Wind Ensemble. Colin
now resides in both Greenville and Raleigh, NC, where he teaches the
ECU Drumline, works as a freelance percussionist, teaches a few local
high schools, and privately teaches lessons.
Aaron Kingsberry
ECU Drumline Instructor
Aaron Kingsberry is returning to his fourth year on staff with the
Marching Pirates. He also is currently the Director of Bands at North Pitt
High School in Bethel, NC where he is responsible for the Concert
Band, Jazz Combo, Marching Band and Percussion Ensemble. Under
Mr. Kingsberry's direction, North Pitt has grown from 19 students in his
first year of teaching to 60 students in the middle of his third year as a
teacher. Aaron is a 2012 graduate of East Carolina University and holds
a Bachelors degree in Music Education. While at ECU, he participated
in many of ensembles that included the ECU Marching Pirates,
Symphonic Band, Percussion Ensemble and Percussion Players. From
2011-2013 Mr. Kingsberry learned and assisted former ECU Drumline
instructor and now current UNC Charlotte Drumline Instructor, Nick
Nichols during his tenure with the Marching Pirates. During his musical
studies at ECU from 2007-2012, Aaron studied percussion under
Jonathan Wacker and Chris Nappi. During his high school years of
2003-2007, Mr. Kingsberry was in a band of 175 under the direction of
retired band director Richard Bergman of Herndon High School in
Herndon, Virginia and Stacey Loggins, percussionist of the US Navy
Band and ECU Graduate.
In addition to his duties at North Pitt and the ECUMP, Aaron between
2007-2014 fulfilled volunteer roles with the East Carolina University
Marching Pirates, JH Rose High School Marching Band, Ayden Grifton
High School Marching Band and South Central High School Marching
Band.
Drumline Instrumentation
The ECU Marching Pirates Drumline will march 7-10 Snares, 4-6 Tenors, 5-7 Bass
Drums and 7-10 Cymbals. The numbers are based on attendance (how many
people show up) and what we think will allow us to maintain the quality of the full
group. Please note: The ECU Marching Pirates currently do not have a front
ensemble, due to the time crunch that happens with half time performances and
other game day events.
Do I have to be a music major to join?
Absolutely not! We welcome both music majors and non-majors into our ranks
equally. Both groups are equally vital to the ECU Drumline and help to create the
overall culture of the group. We would not be the same without either group.
Playing Style
For the best explanation of this, please refer to the technique packet. However, on a
note less focused on technique and more on performance, we will take this
opportunity to talk about how we carry ourselves as we play. The neck and
shoulders are relaxed and the face is normally in a neutral position. However,
sometimes fun happens (crazy) and it is natural to get into your performance. The
key thing is that the technique and quality of drumming NEVER suffers due to
“hype”. Our job is to be exciting, not excited. As long as that is kept in mind, don’t
be afraid to get into your performance. However, if it is something beyond a facial
expression, then it needs to be done in uniform with the full group.
Rehearsal Expectations
Given the heavy time constraints of a normal performance season, every effort
must be made to maximize the amount of quality, on-task rehearsal time within
each session. As a result, our work ethic, and what we do outside of rehearsal is
absolutely vital to our success in rehearsal. A key component to successful
rehearsing in the Pirate Drumline is the use of a metronome both in practice and in
rehearsal. In order for the group to develop a consistent sense of time and rhythmic
interpretation, every member of the ensemble must own a metronome and use it
every time they practice. Furthermore, each time we meet as a line, from the first
day of auditions to the very last show, the staff and section leaders will be making
clear assignments and goals for the ensemble from day to day. If you are asked to
learn something by a particular day, it is the expectation of the entire group that
you will show up on that day ready to do what was asked of you. This is a standard
that is held across the line. Beyond that, you should be constantly evaluating how
to improve yourself. Make it a goal to work on one major aspect from two or more
pieces of music, and to work on a technique concept every day.
Rehearsal Protocol
Okay great! We have our expectations for what you should be doing to prepare for
rehearsal. Now what will you do in rehearsal. Once we hit the regular season (post
band camp) it is standard to meet a half hour before the band rehearses to warm-up
and prepare for full band rehearsal. This means your drum needs to be ready to
play with the downbeat at 3:30pm. We will play various exercises with the
metronome to warm-up our hands and focus in on particular aspects of our
technique. Then, we will hit some material on our own, away from the band.
During this time we will work on show music (halftime or pregame), cadences,
grooves, etc. We then will join the band on the field, and follow their procedure
until 6:00pm (or whenever Professor Staub releases the band). As this time we will
run through cadences and some other drumline specific material. Then, we will
neatly put away our drums.
Weekly Rehearsal Schedule
Weekly rehearsals are one of the most important tasks that we do as a group. It is
imperative that each member of the drumline creates a weekly schedule that caters
to the routine of the ECU Marching Pirates Band. The Marching Pirates weekly
rehearsal schedule is as follows:
Mondays: 4-6pm
Wednesdays: 4-6pm
Fridays: 4-6pm
However, due to the sheer amount of material we need to cover outside of the
material we play with the band, our schedule looks more like this:
Mondays 3:30-6:30pm
Wednesdays: 3:30-6:30pm
Fridays: 3:30-6:30pm
PLUS a one hour subsectional, the times of which are decided by the sections
individually to allow all of the subsection’s members to attend.
So why the extra half-hour on each end? Due to the nature of rehearsal, we need to
be able to jump in right at 4:00 with show music and whatever we are working on.
However, it is crucial to our success that we warm-up together as a line and have a
chance to work on performance material away from the rest of the band, so that we
can provide a solid foundation for them. The half-hour at the end is to allow for a
run-through or two of our cadences and other drumline specific material. If for
some reason you have a class conflict with either of these times please contact a
member of the staff after earning a spot on the line. We are willing to work out
alternatives, but obviously the more you can be a part of our standard procedure
the better.
The sub-sectionals are to allow each section to work in a more focused setting.
Sometimes when rehearsing as a full line, we need to work on a specific chunk of a
piece because as an ensemble it is difficult. The bass drums might have a feature
that they need to work on together, but no one else plays. The options here are to
either spend time with over 20 people sitting around waiting on the bass drums, or
we can meet separately as a bass line to work on that section of the piece away
from the line. The result is a smoother rehearsal and it keeps everyone engaged in
rehearsal (and keeps us on the route to success).
Preparing Your Body for Marching Band
General Physical Fitness
Participation in marching band is rigorous and requires you to be in good physical
and mental condition. Band members should start an exercise program a minimum
of four weeks before the marching band season begins. Perform warm-up activities
in advance of an aerobic fitness program. Good aerobic choices include 20-30
minutes of jogging, tennis, or ultimate Frisbee as examples. You should strive for
at least 30 minutes of aerobic activity, 5-7 days per week. Always drink a lot of
water.
High Impact
The East Carolina University Marching Pirates Band style of marching is a highintensity, high-impact activity. It is a good idea to incorporate high impact
activities like running, stair climbing, jump-roping, or sports like basketball,
soccer, or even football, into your athletic routine. These activities will help
improve your cardiovascular endurance and help to bulk up your body’s tissues so
they are less likely to get damaged during the season. Just don’t break a finger or
anything…we need those.
Footwear
Purchase a good pair of shoes with generous amounts of cushioning and adequate
arch support. A supportive cross-trainer style shoe is best for marching practice
even if performance shoes are different. Improper footwear can lead to problems
such as plantar fasciitis and shin splints. Cushioned insoles and arch supports can
be bought at most athletic shoe stores. You do not want to begin band rehearsals in
new shoes, but make sure that your shoes are not overly worn. Lastly, from
experience I do NOT recommend flat bottom shoes. I wear them regularly, but for
rehearsal I find that they create an excess of slipping and sliding.
Ankle Strengthening
The quick turns executed during marching demand adequate ankle strength. Single
leg balancing exercises have been shown to reduce the incidence of ankle injuries.
Place your hands out to your side and balance on the ball of one foot, slowly lifting
yourself up and down. If you are having trouble balancing, focus on keeping your
head upright. I also highly recommend doing ankle rotations to both improve
flexibility and strength in your shin muscles. Lastly, just generally improving your
balance helps a lot. Make a regular habit out of a simple balance exercise like
balancing on one foot for 20 to 30 seconds, then shifting your weight to the other
foot.
Stretching
Maintaining your flexibility is important for optimal muscle function. It is a good
idea to stretch before and after any kind of exercise – especially marching.
Stretching is most effective when your muscles are warm, so take a couple of
minutes to do some jumping jacks or take a slow jog before you do your stretches.
Stretching is also necessary after you are finished exercising.
Drumline Traditions
March to the Stadium
Pregame Tailgate Bands
Pregame
3rd Down Cadence (Old Run On Cadence)
Musical Cheers, Chasers, and Grooves in Football Stands
Post-Game Performances
(and many more)
EAST CAROLINA UNIVERSITY SCHOOL SONGS
East Carolina University Alma Mater
Praise to your name so fair, Dear old East Car'lina,
Your joys we'll all share, and your friends we'll ever be.
We pledge our loyalty, and our heart's devotion,
To thee, our Alma Mater, love and praise.
E.C. Victory
Cheer for East Car'lina, Cheer for old E.C.,
We know we're the finest, Onward to victory! GO PIRATES!!!
Cheer for East Car'lina, Cheer on for old E.C.,
Loyal and Bold, we're the purple and gold,
WE ARE THE PIRATES OF E.C.U.!
AUDITION INFORMATION
If you are interested in auditioning for the 2015 ECU Marching Pirates Drumline, please fill out
the contact form found on the ECU Marching Pirates website (marchingpirates.org) and read
through the information under Events: “Preseason Band Camp”.
We are all excited to see what the 2015 edition of the Marching Pirates Drumline has in store for
us, and we want to see you there. As such, we need you to do the following things moving
forward.
There are several files located on the website. Prospective members should download and print
these, and begin working. The "Technique Packet" is there to show you our approach to
drumming and help you understand what our expectations are moving forward.
Audition Process
There are two sets of auditions: The ECU Marching Pirates Drumline "Day of Drumming" (now
two separate days), and the first couple days of Preseason Training Camp. There is quite a lot of
material to be learned, so you will not be required to have all of the material memorized for "Day
of Drumming"... but it will only help you! For further information on auditions and expectations
moving into the season, please read the 2015 Technique Handbook.
However some key things first:
Day(s) of Drumming
The annual Day of Drumming that we hold every year for prospective and returning members
has been turned into two separate days in order to accommodate possible schedule issues.
Neither of these days is required, but it is highly recommended that you attend AT LEAST one
of them, as we can give you feedback on what to work on prior to the summer so you can
prepare your audition.
Day 1: April 18 from 8 AM to 4:30 PM
Day 2: May 2 from 8 AM to 4:30 PM
What to Bring
There are several things that the entire band will need for camp, but some that are specifically
required for the Drumline both at the Days of Drumming and at the Preseason Band Camp. In
addition to the supplies required for the full band, please be sure to have the following items on
the first day of camp:
1. Three-ring binder with all material in protective plastic sleeves
2. Additional plastic sleeves for music you will receive at camp
3. Pencils
4. Practice pad
5. Water bottle
6. EAR PLUGS!!!
7. Sticks and/or mallets
8. Metronome (not mandatory, but strongly encouraged)
QUESTIONS?!? EMAIL: ecudrumline@gmail.com