Patterns of motion and soundpower : their significance to the school marching band

"Patterns of Motion" is a concept of marching band performance featuring the evolution of designs based upon a squad concept with maneuvers presented in a systematic manner for ease of teaching to various size marching bands. "Soundpower" is a specific style of music scoring that achieves a maximum projection of sound and utilizes the instrumentation of a specific band to greatest efficiency. "Patterns of Motion" and "Soundpower" compliment each other when used conjunctly as an efficient method of teaching the marching band. The purpose of this study is to identify the significant influence and contribution "Patterns of Motion" and "Soundpower" have had upon the evolution of the marching band. A review of the literature reveals no documented research regarding the significance of these specific concepts. In view of this, there is an apparent void in the development of an historical and descriptive base from which experimental, scientific, and music analysis research may evolve. This study examines the concepts of "Patterns of Motion" and "Soundpower" and historically and descriptively identifies their contributions and influence on the marching band in todayts educational programs. Specifically, the study (1) presents an historical and descriptive account of the development of "Patterns of Motion" and compares this concept to other styles of teaching marching maneuvers; (2) analyzes basic scoring techniques in selected scores of "Soundpower" arrangements with attention given to comparative scoring techniques, revised instrumentation; and new instruments; (3) discusses the influence of "Patterns of Motion" on teaching and learning in public school instrumental programs; (U) provides a statement of educational needs that inspired William Moffit to create these concepts; and (5) suggests trends for the future of marching bands based on "Patterns of Motion" and "Soundpower" concepts. The study concludes that "Patterns of Motion" and "Soundpower" have been considered the first complete system of materials made commercially available as a teaching device for the marching band. These concepts have influenced music scoring techniques, marching band teaching procedures, and the development of new musical instruments. The study provides a base to further pursue historical studies concerning the marching band movement, the marching bands' relationship to other areas of music education and a deeper insight into the educational significance of these concepts.