Introduction to Performing Arts Costs-(Synthesis) #1

Performing Arts can range from Band/Marching Band, Orchestra, Choir, Theater, Debate, and much more. The list can go on, however the ongoing issues faced about funding for the arts is not getting a wide reply. The costs to participate in these activities however are not cheap. For example looking back at the article The “Real”cost of High School Marching Band”, the average cost for instruments, clothing, medical supplies, fundraisers, and travel expenses can cost an estimated $7,110.

In Marching band their are different levels of music that one must play. Grades 1,2,3, and 4 require the instructors for both dance and band to create a spectacular field show. Field show are written in what is called “drill”. The drill gives the members of both the band and color guard an exact spot were they are supposed to be at, and a certain time. However most band and color guard directors usually hire a drill writer to write the drill instead of the directors writing it themselves. Hiring a drill writer however, is not cheap. Looking back at the Marching Warehouse website, depending on how many members and what grade of piece they are playing the amount of money varies. For example a grade 2 piece with 1–50 member would charge the $1,000 to get their drill written where as a music with the grade 4 rating would cost $1,500 to have their drill written.

The different grades are really important in the music world, theses grades give us a complex idea of how challenging the music is. Grade 2 is the lowest grade for a Marching Band Field Show, and does not require a lot of skills. Therefore the drill is pretty basic and does not require the band to be in a competing class. Grade 3 on the other hand, their visual skills are required for this drill. This puts the drill at the average level. This drill will be up to 40 pages long and will feature backwards marching, extended step size, and interval changes. Where as Grade 4’s visual skills will be at an average or above average rate. Meaning that the drill will be 50 pages long and will feature, backwards marching, extended step size, and interval changes are very common.This grade of drill is normally written for competitions and doing well in competitions.

Marching Band Requires a lot of time, money, and work which is why in the next article we will be taking a look at the funding opportunities for Marching Band. Not only will we be looking at Marching Band funding, but Performing Arts funding in general.

Citations:

“Pricing — Music — Drill Design.” The Marching Warehouse, www.themarchingwarehouse.com/pricing-music-drill-design/

Geli, Elizabeth. “The ‘Real’ Cost of High School Marching Band?” Halftime Magazine, 7 Sept. 2015, www.halftimemag.com/web-exclusives/the-real-cost-of-high-school-marching-band.html.