SHOW NOTES

TME Podcast Season 4, Ep. 14: Basic Scoring Techniques for the Marching Band Part 1

Description: The late summer brings a magical time of year when you hear the immortal phrase, "Welcome to Band Camp!" For many music educators and teens this is a special time of year when there is promise of competition, skill development and accomplishment. For some programs, band camp is a time to prepare for parades and competitions. For others this is a time to prepare for spirited football game performances and a chance to get your groove on. Regardless, this time of year is a chance to showcase excellence in music making and today we will discuss "Basic Scoring Techniques for the Marching Band."

Source Material

Lifting Music

Choosing a Key

Key Relationships

The Character of Melody

Focus on Block Scoring

Upper Part Orientation


Mr. Spencer-Pierce recommends that smaller band arranging for upper parts should include:


Lead Part - Trumpet 1, Clarinet 1, Flute 8va

Part 2 - Trumpet 2, Clarinet 2

Part 3 - Alto Sax, Horn


In contrast, Mr. Spencer-Pierce recommends that larger band arranging for upper parts should include:


Lead Part - Trumpet 1, Clarinet 1, Flutes 8va

Part 2 - Trumpet 2, Clarinet 2, Alto Sax, Flute 2 8va

Part 3 - Trumpet 3, Clarinet 3, Horn

Lower Part Orientation


The bass line can also function separate from the rest of the low brass trio voicing. As a result, the remaining low brass and low woodwind parts may be arranged in the following manner.


Small Band

Part 1 - Trombone

Part 2 - Tenor Sax

Part 3 - Baritone


Medium Band

Part 1 - Trombone 1

Part 2 - Trombone 2, Tenor Sax

Part 3 - Baritone


Large Band

Part 1 - Trombone 1

Part 2 - Trombone 2, Tenor Sax

Part 3 - Trombone 3, Baritone

Scoring for Powerful Moments

Harmonic Rhythm

Final Thoughts

Sources

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