Joy!

What brings joy to your and your students? A beautiful sunrise or sunset, acing a test, seeing family and friends? Of course, the list is endless and will certainly vary depending on the individual. Mike Pote’s uplifting and totally inspiring composition is the perfect vehicle to present a field show that is fun, engaging, and simply a joy to participate in and watch.

Your first decision will be what type of story you want to develop and how much (or how little) elaboration you need.

One example is simply to select flag colors/designs and auxiliary costumes that are up-beat, colorful and joyful and present a show with no hidden meaning. Big smiles, exaggerated visuals (or sometimes even a sly wink or head bop) will go far in leaving your audience and performers feeling completely satisfied when the final note hits. You will long be remembered even after you leave the field with comments like, “I can’t put my finger on it, but that show just made me feel good!” Who knows, it could even become a running motto for your season.

Of course there is always the other end of the spectrum. You and your design staff may choose to pull out all the stops with your joyous presentation. Colorful backdrops, ramps, stages, elaborate costumes (maybe even new plumes, sashes, or overlays for the band proper), plus voice-overs to ensure a memorable experience. Where to start with this path? First, select a storyline. Here are just a few examples that you could develop (or perhaps they will spark your creative juices to go another direction): A student’s journal/blog/twitter entries, joyful celebrations (birthdays, holidays, school milestones), or the question, “What is Joy?” supported by famous quotes about joy.

Once you select your storyline, you can then decide how to utilize your backdrops and props Colorful art work? Actual photographs? Words and phrases plastered everywhere? You can also choose to incorporate voice-overs, using student voices, children’s voices (more whimsical) or adult male or female . Like the simple presentation described above, your auxiliary costuming and flags should be bright and up-beat. It bears repeating that the presentation of Joy! may be as minimal or over-the-top as you see fit. If played and marched well, this show will be a highlight of the season.

Other Options for “Joy!”

1) Everyday Heroes – how about a celebration of those in your community and our world that bring us joy by what they contribute?

2) Joy-Us! This could be an alternate title if you wish to present a show highlighting your students’ achievements, goals and aspirations!