Drum Corps Choreographer

A field show’s choreographer designs and teaches the artistic movements that the color guard and band members perform. They often specialize in color guard choreography specifically, creating all of the flag, rifle, saber, prop, and dance movements. Field show choreographers can also design drill (marching movement plans) and coordinate the expressive motions of the band members.

In addition to the technical skill needed to create and teach these movements, choreographers must have a thorough understanding of performance and music. The choreography must meld seamlessly with the music and elevate the expressiveness for the audience. Field show choreographers must be great artists, and also passionate about teaching their work. Choreographers are employed as active members of a marching band, winter guard, or drum corps’ creative team (see Drum Corps Visuals ), often spending as much time on the field as the performers themselves to teach and drill their choreography.

The best field show choreographers will have multiple years of experience performing in school marching bands, winter guard programs, and professional drum corps organizations like Drum Corps International (DCI). Formal dance training is an invaluable asset to this work, as is training in movement, creativity, and body awareness.