Drum Corps Visuals

The visual designer of a field show production helps make the visual and aesthetic idea of the performance into reality by creating an executable plan and design scheme. Everything that the audience sees during a marching band or drum corps’ performance is the work of the visual designer: the way the band members march, how the performers move across the field (also called “drill”), the physical props used, the design of the uniforms and costumes, and more.

While some visual designers execute this overall vision, others focus entirely upon creating the movement plans that the individuals use to create the large shapes and figures audiences see during their performance (similar to a drill designer). Field show visual and drill designers are hired by schools and professional drum corps either on a contract or full-time basis depending on the structure and size of the organization. (See also: Drum Corps Choreographer )

The best visual designers will have multiple years of experience performing in school marching bands and professional drum corps organizations like Drum Corps International (DCI).