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MILITARY: This routine will contain sharp, robotic arm movements and
footwork. It will utilize any sections, formations and traveling patterns
and may contain a short kick series for effect. None of the movements should
be "soft" or flowing. There should be dynamic movements.
POM PON: This type of routine will have lots of arm work with poms in hand.
It will contain formations and is usually very sharp and energetic in style.
Poms should be in hand at least 75% of routine and should be the focus of the
visual effect.
NOVELTY: This category is usually the most entertaining in that a theme is
carried out through costumes, music and characterizations. Props, staging
and backdrops may be used to carry out the theme but the prop should not become the primary use of the routine and should not be used more than 25% of
the dance. Do not allow team members to become "sloppy" on novelty merely
because it is "fun". Precision and technique always play important roles.
LYRICAL: This dance is performed in fluid, balletic type movements; sometimes
takes the form of 'modern dance' or gives an interpretation of music or thought. Again, there is precision and energy in its execution and is not to
be mistaken with 'ad-libbing' and frolicking around the performance area. Lyrical is sometimes thematic and emotional.
In preparation for choreography of any category of dance, the procedures
are the same. (1) Music selection and appropriateness is the first consideration, followed by,
(2) phrasing your music, (3) determining strong portions of music, (4) placing steps within the phrasing and
inflection of the music, (5) determining patterns and their placement in the music, and (6) evaluating choreography.
Your choreography sources can be limitless. Television, movies, stage
productions, musicals, sports and any form of movement can be an influence on
a routine. Never limit yourself. There are several philosophies in the drill team world on choreography responsibilities:
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Director
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Officers
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Summer camps and workshops
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Outside choreographer
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Combination of 1-4
My philosophy parallels with #5 as to not rule out any source of
creativity. You don't have to be a "dancer" to assist with the choreography
for your team. I encourage you to train your officers in these procedures to
help them to be better leaders as well as choreographers. |
