Section 5: Chapter 2 Rehersal Techniques

Question 1

What are two distinguishing characteristics that are common in American style marches?

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Answer 1

British
marches differ from American marches by using the full value of the “stinger” at the end
of phrases instead of a staccato punctuation in the American style

Question 2

What are three characteristics of the American style march known as the “Screamer?”

Answer 2

The hallmarks of “screamers” is that they have lots of runs, fanfares, and quick intricate rhythms meant to be very showy. Tempo shifts often happen on the final strain, which starts out slowerand more maestoso, leading to an accelerando to the end of the piece that will be faster than the original tempo.

Question 3

What are two distinguishing characteristics that are common in English stylemarches?

Answer 3

The British march style has a tempo that is stately, between 88 and 112 bpm. British marches typically have intricate countermelodies during the repeat of a strain and have
a wide variety of dynamics which is often different during repeated strains.

Question 4

What are the distinguishing characteristics of fanfares?

Answer 4

Fanfares are short, usually less than two
minutes, feature bold and distinct rhythmic patterns, bold melodies, and prominent tone
colors.

Question 5

What do you look for when critical listening during rehearsing marches?

Answer 5

An integral part of the rehearsal process is listening to the ensemble for all of the
elements of style and performance directions. The main focus of rehearsal preparation,
as the unit leader, is to develop a mental image of the score. The main focus of the
rehearsal, as the unit leader, is conveying that image of the score to the ensemble with
his/her conducting skills. It is important to listen for and evaluate the ensemble’s
interpretation of each of the elements to be expressed as well as the style and
performance.

Style for the marches includes dynamics. The dynamics must be different for each
strain and repeat. This gives the march a sense of moving from one melody to the next.
Match or contrast the dynamics of one instrument group with another. Some strains
feature brass the first time and woodwinds for the repeat. In terms of style, this creates
differences in timbre which automatically changes the dynamics. These differences
give the march some intrigue and keeps the audience’s attention.

Another feature of the march style is the transition of chords and key changes. The
chords and chord progressions are usually straight forward with V7-I and I-IV-V7-I for
much of the strain. The composers do make it interesting by using secondary dominant
chords near the end of the strain for variety and added tension. The runs and chord
transitions also need to be crisp, rhythmic, and purposeful in moving to their resolution
or cadence.

Question 6

Describe the criterion for selecting marches for a ceremonial setting.

Answer 6

Often, these pre-ceremonial music sets are well suited for
marches because they are familiar to the audience, are musically pleasing, and create
excitement. Music selections should focus on setting the mood for the occasion. If the
occasion is regal in nature, uplifting and stoic selections work well. If the ceremony is
festive in nature, uplifting and exciting music is recommended. Somber occasions such
as funerals may have the music pre-selected. In these cases, the addition of the music
may be to provide comfort and solace for the audience