Amy Hernandez ’23 (Bachelor of Music in Music Education) presented “It’s a Choice: A Band Director’s Guide to Visual Technique” at the Virginia Music Educators Association (VMEA) Professional Development Conference in Richmond, Virginia, this month. Her session was selected by the Virginia Band & Orchestra Directors Association (VBODA) for the conference and outlined the fundamental pieces of a marching band’s visual package. She presented to high school band directors from across the state of Virginia and gave advice to those needing assistance with their own ensembles.
Session Description
“With the marching arts evolving at a rapid pace, there comes a need for definition on the visual side. ‘It’s a Choice: A Band Director’s Guide to Visual Technique’ explores the different styles of marching, leg shape, dance basics, and physical body health care that can help your marching band program grow with the times. This ‘choose your own adventure’ format helps you to create a visual program suited to your taste and ability. We will explore the ins and outs of marching fundamentals, uncover the beauty of choreography and dance, and find ways of keeping your students healthy and well in the process.”