Indoor Marching Drumline
The activity combines a multitude of disciplines including marching percussion, concert percussion, dance, art, theatre, choir, and cheerleading. Indoor Marching Drumline productions are cross-curricular in that they incorporate dance and movement, theatrical performance, and artistic set design to create a narrative or explore a theme. Such productions are a reflection of the opportunities to celebrate and exchange ideas and interests unique to a community culture.
On top of the fine motor skills that drumming technique requires (through the mastering of warm-ups, cadences, grooves, shows), the students also are engaged in full body movement through setting the music to drill and physical training. The students must develop their own show (music and choreography) while simultaneously building their skill sets as musicians and dancers. Students need to develop creative thinking and communication skills in order to successfully write and choreograph a show.
Individual and collective expression are founded on the history, culture, community, and value system in which they exist. Creative and technical proficiency in music is transferable across different aspects of our lives. Music and movement can be adapted to facilitate limitless expression and meaning. Purposeful choices enhance the quality, artistry, and authenticity of musical processes. Music with movement offers aesthetic experiences that can transform our perspective.
The combination of percussive arts, movement, and theatre allow for the celebration of Aboriginal worldviews and perspectives as well as positive and productive blending of genres and styles. Indigenous traditional drumming as well as dancing can be incorporated into Indoor Marching Drumline thematic or narrative productions with the input and approval of local Indigenous musicians which leads to important learning opportunities around cultural appropriation and influence of local cultures.