As a band director, it's rewarding to help teenagers explore their love of music while playing in the marching band. Then on top of that, they grow and learn life lessons that they can apply during and after high school.
In the final part of our two-part series, we examine how kids will benefit from being part of a marching band:
1. Multi-tasking
Musicians in a marching band have a lot of responsibility. Because of this, they'll learn how to multi-task, which is a vital skill they can then use when studying for an exam and writing an essay in college, for example.
2. Resilience
Musicians, band directors and staff members all make mistakes. What matters the most is they come back stronger and don't make the same ones twice.
It's often difficult for band members to overcome mistakes, especially if they think that as a result, they let their teammates down. Reiterate that nobody's perfect. Mistakes happen and when they do, treat them as learning experiences.
3. Creative thinking
Music and marching band is an art. Successful band directors and members know how to think creatively to solve problems. If something doesn't sound right, they can fix it. If the choreography looks off, they can collaborate and form a solution.
At the beginning of the year, directors and section leaders need to help teach and bring the band together. To do so, they must think of unique ways to get their messages across.
With the right marching band accessories, band directors can create great field shows and a great experience for young musicians.