Posted by John on April 08, 2008 at 10:32:43:
In Reply to: Re: another marching question- very small band- should I even do this? posted by rds on April 08, 2008 at 10:01:54:
Small towns often view tradition to the point of "expected". If the parade is small; has few participants; only does the downtown area, etc., you might want to work-up a simple cadence, have the kids in just a couple of lines with the percussion behind. Stage or standstill perform one number at a couple of appropriate places along the parade route. Have the kids look great (uniformed, posture, horn angles, etc.) and sound better (probably) than trying to march and play at the same time.
Ask the parade organizers if you can lead the parade with Legion, Boy Scout, etc. colors in front and that they are asked to stop their forward march when you do.
Again, in small communities, one negative can erase many positives. It sounds like the kids are trusting you and that your recognizing community support and public relations should benefit the program in the long run.
Good luck.