Incurable Phasing

[TubaDeb]

I've been working in the marching activity for many years and have had the same problem crop up every season...percussionists who play well but can not move their feet in time. This is an age-old problem with many suggestions for improvement. I have found that using popular music during basic block has helped marchers keep their feet in time. I first tried this in the early '90s when school dances were a regular occurrence. I find that it is less effective recently. Does anyone have other suggestions to work this timing issue (besides living with the Doctor )?

[lukesursely]

A few Questions first.
1. Are you making sure to spend time learning marching basics?
2. During basics are you using a metronome?
3. How much time are you spending on basics?

Throwing kids on the field or the street w/o any time learning marching basics will be counterproductive for your group. I notice that bands who truly understand rhythms have the best time on their feet. I have more but I want to know your situation more before I start giving suggestions.

[Jaymac]

Start with quarter notes, play 4, rest 4, while marking time and on the move. The rest allows recovery time and time for you to deliver short, precise instructions while keeping their feet moving. Always use the metronome and define what part of the foot hits the ground on the beat. Exaggerate the impact of the heal in the ground on the beat. Work to more advanced rhythms as they master the easier.

It would be interesting to know their rhythmic and tempo control during concert band. One tends affect the other.