Our band is preparing for a joint concert with the Virginia National Guard Band. Part of the preparation for me included a discussion about the nature of the Ntl Guard band program.
My understanding is that the band meets once a month for rehearsals, then pulls its yearly two week assignment touring the state presenting concerts and, in our case, joint concerts with community bands. Scholarship programs are available and well worth consideration. I have seen and heard many unit bands in the area (Tidewater, Virginia). I have observed that often the unit bands are one-to-a-part. This presents some significant challenges to the flute players! He will almost certainly play "The Stars and Stripes Forever" until he looses count of how many times he has played it. And more likely than not, he will play it all by himself. Does he have a piccolo? If not, get one immediately and start figuring out where to breathe! Do the math; three trumpets, four horns, three trombones, and one or maybe two flutes. No such good odds. Of course, the brass players are excellent and can play softly. But still, the gig is a real challenge! Guy Hayden, Music Director and Conductor The Peninsula Concert Band Newport News, VA USA http://members.cox.net/pcb2 > My son, a recent conservatory grad has been making the audition rounds, and > since they were at the school he decided to audition for the Army band > recruiter. They said they would love to have him (he's a fine player) and > there was no hurry - he could take a whole 24 hours to decide. Right! > > > Disclaimer: He is a flute player, but please don't let that prejudice your > responses :) > > Thanks in advance > Dennis Hooper > > _______________________________________________ post: [EMAIL PROTECTED] set your options at http://music.memphis.edu/mailman/options/horn/archive%40jab.org
