Integrating Technology into Your Marching Band Front Ensemble
Integrating Technology With Your Marching Band
The marching band activity is constantly changing. Ten years ago, no one would have imagined marching band would include the use of laptop computers and sophisticated sound systems. Today, bands are experimenting with new and creative techniques for amplifying and augmenting their band's sound. There are varying degrees of technological integration available for your band. But first, you might be wondering, why use technology with my band?
The benefits of using
technology with your marching band...
The most basic form of technological integration with a marching band is amplification. No matter the size of your band, amplifying the pit percussion will be beneficial. Amplification will give your pit a much larger presence in the overall ensemble thereby filling out your band's sound. In a larger band, this is almost a necessity to be able to match the power and volume of the wind section. If you, for example, want to use a woodwind soloist, you will absolutely need amplification to get their sound to reach the press box. Once you have mastered the basic techniques of amplification, there are unlimited opportunities for creative expansion. One option, that is readily available and becoming more common, is the use of a laptop computer. A combination of hardware and software can give your band a new and unique sound. Watch our web video, "How to Set Up a Laptop Rig Using an Apple MacBook Pro and Kontakt 3," for a demonstration of how a laptop is used with the Carmel Marching Band.
How do I choose a
sound system appropriate for my band?
There is no set in stone sound system that every band uses. A sound system can be designed specifically for your band's size and needs. From using only a keyboard and amp all the way up to using an advanced system including the amplification of the entire pit, synthesizers, and laptop computers, there are options perfect for your band. If you are serious about adding technology to your marching band but do not think that you can do it yourself, help is available. Dynamic Marching is now offering music technology consulting; an opportunity to have a system designed specifically for you, installed, and be trained by a skilled expert.