Visual Ensemble Tryout Information
Friday, March 12, 2010 (15:44:50)

Posted by BandDirector

Visual Ensemble Tryouts are coming up. Please carefully read the information below and contact the appropriate person for more information. We want you to do your very best and be a part of our award-winning teams, so we are going to provide as much information as we possibly can to help you prepare. Remember: even if you're just curious about auditioning for any part of the Visual Ensemble meeting, there will be a brief meeting Monday after we return from Spring Break.

Important Dates (contact Mr. Garner for questions):
See the Calendar for information regarding dates.

General Information (what judges look for):

Flag & Marching Basics (contact Gena Holloway for questions):
Basic flag work (drop spins, speed spins, various tosses, windmills, slams, etc.)
Basic body movement
Marching ability
Flexibility

Key Dancer Auditions (contact Esther Ballard or Susan Brown for questions):
Turns - Pirouette, fouette, chaine, pique, proper spotting, etc.
Leaps - Split leap, grand jete, axle, straddle, etc.
High Kicks
Splits

In General:
Projection - Showmanship, confidence, facial expression, genuine smile, spirit, enthusiasm, attitude, eye contact, focus, audience appeal
Uniformity - Precision of movements, rhythm/timing, memory/quick recovery, knowledge of routines, style
Technique - Posture, pointed toes, strength of movement, body extension, placement of motions, head movements, arm movements, body control
Overall performance and attitude

What To Wear:
Black dance pants
Black jazz shoes
Fitted tank top or sleeveless shirt (PLAIN, solid color that compliments your skin/hair)
Wear hair down and styled for performance
Wear make-up that will enhance your features under bright, white gym lights

Pre-clinic:
There will be separate, optional pre-clinics for Color Guard and Key Dancers. The Color Guard pre-clinic will be March 23rd-25th at the Hamilton Middle School gym. This will give you a great jump start on learning the required material for Flag & Marching Basics, which everyone must pass to participate. Wear your dance pants or shorts and tennis shoes or jazz shoes, and bring $15 the first day.

The Key Dancers pre-clinic dates and other information will be announced later.