The contemporary field pageantry show for marching band can be an exciting blend of aural and visual elements. Coordination of these elements is the foundation of an effective, entertaining show. The ebb and flow of elements, creation of tension moments and release moments, and use of the space and time of performance all interconnect to form a whole experience that at its best can be both very entertaining and very moving. At THG Music my goal is to write “visual music”. That is, I strive to create music that, while satisfying to a degree when played on its own, only truly comes alive in the context of the blend of elements that make up the contemporary marching band experience. Scoring decisions are driven by this goal: placement of melodic, counter-melodic, and accompanying voices are constantly considered in relation to their probable placement on the field. Consideration is also constantly given to the fact that the music is meant to be played on the move. Generally speaking, the show will be performed outside, in a football stadium, so care and attention are paid to the scoring in light of the performance venue. Creative choices are driven by this goal: An ongoing attempt is made to find new and exciting modes of expression in the music, while giving due deference to standard norms of scoring. In plain English, I look for fresh instrument combinations and use of unique melodic line scoring, while recognizing that many times it’s just best to have the melody in the trumpets! Remembering the big picture and designing the music with the end in mind: By nature of the design process, the music for the winds is usually scored first. But I always write the music with the consideration of the whole package, knowing that there will be percussion integrated into the performance, that the guard will be dancing or doing equipment work, that the frontline ensemble can make an invaluable contribution, and that all of these elements contribute throughout the show to effect a pleasing performance. (Photo “Flags in the Sun” by Russell James Smith)

Design Philosophy

The contemporary field pageantry show for marching band can be an exciting blend of aural and visual elements. Coordination of these elements is the foundation of an effective, entertaining show. The ebb and flow of elements, creation of tension moments and release moments, and use of the space and time of performance all interconnect to form a whole experience that at its best can be both very entertaining and very moving.

At THG Music my goal is to write “visual music”. That is, I strive to create music that, while satisfying to a degree when played on its own, only truly comes alive in the context of the blend of elements that make up the contemporary marching band experience.

Scoring decisions are driven by this goal: placement of melodic, counter-melodic, and accompanying voices are constantly considered in relation to their probable placement on the field. Consideration is also constantly given to the fact that the music is meant to be played on the move. Generally speaking, the show will be performed outside, in a football stadium, so care and attention are paid to the scoring in light of the performance venue.

Creative choices are driven by this goal: An ongoing attempt is made to find new and exciting modes of expression in the music, while giving due deference to standard norms of scoring. In plain English, I look for fresh instrument combinations and use of unique melodic line scoring, while recognizing that many times it’s just best to have the melody in the trumpets!

Remembering the big picture and designing the music with the end in mind: By nature of the design process, the music for the winds is usually scored first. But I always write the music with the consideration of the whole package, knowing that there will be percussion integrated into the performance, that the guard will be dancing or doing equipment work, that the frontline ensemble can make an invaluable contribution, and that all of these elements contribute throughout the show to effect a pleasing performance.

(Photo “Flags in the Sun” by Russell James Smith)

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