NATIONAL BAND COUNCIL OF AUSTRALIA INC

INCORPORATING THE BRASS AND CONCERT BANDS OF AUSTRALIA

DRILL AND MARCHING HANDBOOK

Guidelines for Drum Majors and Bands

2012

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This Handbook has been designed for use by bands which are preparing for an
engagement that involves marching and for Drum Majors and drill instructors who are
preparing a band for a marching competition. It is intended to provide guidance on drill
movements and procedures. It is not a set of Regulations – for the Regulations applying
to a contest, bands should refer to the NBCA Street and Marching Regulations and
special conditions, if any, included in the Contest Schedule for that contest.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

The Drum Major 4

Leadership 4
Methods of Instruction 4
Guiding Principles 5
Definitions 6
Staff Drill for Drum Major 7
Words of Command 10
Basic Drill Movements 11
Inspection Drill 14
Basic Marching Evolutions 17
Squaring a Band 21

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 THE DRUM-MAJOR

To achieve maximum endeavour from the band the drum-major must develop a thorough
knowledge of the basic drills and compulsory evolutions, together with the ability to pass
this knowledge on to the band members.

The drum-major will know what he/she is talking about and be able to hold the interest of
the band members. Self-confidence and knowledge can be gained only by study,
research and practice in the art of imparting information to others. Vagueness and
uncertainty will quickly stifle interest. Be sure of staff and whistle signals. Check all
preparation prior to drill parades. Your band will approve of an attitude of enthusiasm
and a show of ability.

Correct instructional procedures should be observed. Avoid sarcasm. Remember that

your members are 100% voluntary starters. Exercise tact and patience.

It is desirable that a drum-major should develop a personal style but not with exaggerated
‘show-pony’ mannerisms. The drum-major should work at it. Watch other drum-majors.
Deportment is paramount, precision is important. If the drum-major is good, the band
members will rise to it.

LEADERSHIP

Leadership depends on simple, straightforward human qualities. The drum-major

must gain the confidence and respect of the band members.

This depends on the following qualities:-

SELF CONFIDENCE;
THOROUGH KNOWLEDGE OF THE DRUM-MAJOR’S DUTIES; and
THE ABILITY TO EXECUTE THEM;
A HABIT OF PREPAREDNESS.

METHODS OF INSTRUCTION
THE AIM OF DRILL TRAINING is to develop in the band personnel, the ability to march as
a team, to maintain formations and perform evolutions with confidence and precision.

THE PURPOSE OF PRECISE DRILL is to build up within the band a sense of pride in its
ability to present a picture showing excellent style and precision. These skills attract
much public appreciation.

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The two main channels for instruction are the EYES and the EARS. There is a strong
tendency to train by ORAL instruction rather than by VISUAL methods. The brain
retains easier and more firmly that which is seen rather than that which is heard. The
band trainer therefore should endeavour to use visual training as much as possible.

DEMONSTRATION Training by visual methods.

EXPLANATION Training by oral instruction.
EXECUTION Testing the results of instruction
and correcting errors.
REPETITION Practice to gain improvement and
ultimate precision.

GUIDING PRINCIPLES
To be competent as a drum-major does not require deep learning.

A good drum-major requires:-

(a) sympathy with and a knowledge of the band members;

(b) an exact idea beforehand of the result being aimed for;
(c) a plan for how that result is to be achieved;
(d) a sound knowledge of the subject;
(e) common sense methods;
(f) the ability to maintain the interest of his/her band during training sessions;
(g) a clear reason for the work being taught.

No method of instruction will prove fully effective unless it is based on Simplicity and
Interest. The drum-major will ensure simplicity by preparing the training sessions
carefully. Anything that might obscure the object of the lesson, and perhaps confuse the
band members, must be eliminated.

The enemy of interest is Monotony. Care must be taken that practice sessions are varied
to relieve the monotony of boring repetition.

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 DEFINITIONS

ALIGNMENT Any straight line on which a band is formed or is to be formed.

BLANK FILE A front rank person with no person covering him/her.

COVERING The act of a body placing itself directly to the rear of another.

DEPTH The space occupied by a band from front to rear.

DRESSING To take up alignment correctly, in a rank.

DRILL (a) The training of a bandperson to execute certain movements.

(b) The action of a group executing certain movements in concert.

EVOLUTION A movement by which a band changes direction or formation during a

marching performance.

FILE The front rank person and all persons covering him/her.

FLANK (Directing) The flank by which the band shall march or dress.
(Inner) That nearer to the Directing flank.
(Outer) That opposite to the Inner or Directing flank.

FLOURISH Enhanced staff drill, other than for directing or controlling the progress and/or
evolutions of the band, to make a display for effect.

FORMING A movement by which a band brings forward a flank on a fixed or moving

pivot.

FRONT The direction in which a band is facing or moving at any given time

FRONTAGE The extent of ground covered laterally by a band.

INCLINE The movement by which ground is gained to the front and flank
simultaneously

INTERVAL The lateral space between persons or bands on the same alignment or in depth.

JUDGE (a) The act of assessing a task completed by a band or bands

(b) The person appointed to make the assessment.

PACE (a) A measurement of distance (750 mm)

(b) Rate of progress.

RANK A line of persons side by side.

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SINGLE FILE A column of files.

TURNING A movement by which a band takes up a new alignment.

WHEELING A movement by which a band changes direction on a fixed or moving pivot.

STAFF DRILL FOR DRUM-MAJORS

The Drum-Major shall carry a Staff/Mace.

1. ATTENTION. The point of the staff/mace shall be in line with, and touching,
the toe of the right foot. The staff/mace shall be held firmly at the grip below the
head, elbow bent so that the forearm is parallel with the ground. The staff/mace
to be held to the right of the body.

2. STAND AT EASE. As the left foot is carried to the left the staff/mace shall be
brought to the right front to the full extent of the right arm.

3. STAND EASY. As the head of the staff/mace is brought to the centre of the
body the left hand is placed on top of it. The right hand is then placed on top of
the left hand.

4. TRAIL. Carry the staff/mace in the right hand below the head, thumb in line
with the seam of the trouser leg. The staff/mace parallel with the ground. Note -
When marching in ‘Slow time’ the staff/mace shall be held still. When marching
in ‘Quick time’ the staff/mace shall be swung from front to rear. When moving
about the contest field the staff/mace may be carried at the Trail or Carry.

5. SHORT TRAIL. Hold the staff/mace vertically in the right hand at the grip
below the head, the elbow bent and close to the right side, the tip of the staff/mace
about 100 mm from the ground. Note -When preparing the band for Inspection,
or on tour of Inspection, the staff/mace shall be carried at the Short Trail.

6. CEASE PLAY. From the Carry or Trail position, grip the staff/mace at the
bottom of the chain with the right hand. Raise the staff/mace to an oblique
position to the full extent of the right arm. The arm to be at an angle of 45
degrees above the horizontal and the staff/mace at a right angle to the arm. The
left arm shall be at the side. As the last note is played bring the staff/mace to the
‘Halt’ position then allow it to drop through the hand to the position of
‘Attention’. The band shall bring their instruments to the position of ‘Attention’
at the same time.

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7. SALUTING. When on the march the staff/mace shall be at the Carry in the left
hand to enable the Salute to be executed with the right hand. Head and eyes
turned toward the Saluting base. The Salute shall be maintained for six (6) paces
before and after the Saluting point. The hand salute should only be given when
the drum major is wearing head dress

8. RIGHT or LEFT TURN. The staff/mace shall be held in a vertical position,

ferrule uppermost, head about chin level. (At the first sound of whistle) the
staff/mace shall be brought down smartly to a horizontal position in line with the
shoulder and with the ferrule pointed in the direction in which the turn is to be
made.

9. ADVANCE or FORWARD. The staff/mace to be swung over the shoulder from

front to rear to front.

10. ABOUT TURN. The staff/mace to be swung backwards over the shoulder
several times and brought to a vertical position, ferrule upward, the head of the
staff/mace at chin level (at the first sound of the whistle).

11. INCLINE. The staff/mace to be raised obliquely at an angle of 45 degrees, arms

extended above shoulder height, the ferrule of the staff/mace pointing in the
direction of the incline.

12. WHEELING. Raise the staff/mace above the head to the full extent of both
arms, staff/mace to be held horizontally with the ferrule directed to the outer
flank. The head of the staff/mace should be directly over the head of the drum-
major during the execution of the movement. When the band has completed the
wheel and the front rank is facing in the new direction the signal for ‘Forward’
shall be given.

13. FRONT-TO-REAR COUNTERMARCH. When approaching the point for the

countermarch the staff/mace shall be raised, ferrule forward, to be held at an angle
of 45 degrees above the horizontal. On arriving at the point for the countermarch
the drum-major shall make an about-turn/wheel (see P,19) and move through the
centre of the band. The staff/mace shall be returned to the Trail or Carry position
at the completion of the countermarch unless it is intended to execute the Flank-
to-Flank Countermarch in which case the Mark Time signal shall be given and the
staff/mace returned to the ferrule upright position.

14. FLANK-TO-FLANK COUNTERMARCH. The staff/mace shall be smartly

brought down from the ferrule upright to the horizontal position about head level,
with the ferrule pointed to the right flank, then immediately reversed to point to
the left flank.

15. MARK TIME. The staff/mace shall be held horizontally above the head in both
hands.

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16. HALTING. At least three (3) paces before reaching the Halt point the drum-
major shall raise the staff/mace above his/her head to the full extent of the right
arm. The staff/mace to be perpendicular, head uppermost. On reaching the Halt
point he/she shall bring the staff/mace smartly down to the position of Attention
in one movement.

17. FLOURISH. The accepted procedure for the use of the drum-major’s staff/mace
is as laid down herein. Once efficient, some drum-majors like to add variety, and
‘swing’ the staff/mace. This is certainly effective when executed with skill and
precision. No rules for this can be laid down. It is a matter of personal practice
and natural ability.

18. CARRY. Hold the staff/mace obliquely at the point of balance with a firm grip in
the left hand, left elbow close to the body, wrist and elbow in line, and the left
hand about opposite the left breast. Note - When marching in Slow time the
staff/mace shall be held still. When marching in Quick time the staff/mace may
be moved diagonally across the body between the right breast and the left hip.

19. SWAGGER MARCH. With the staff/mace in Slow time - Ceremonial or

Massed bands. On the command ‘Slow - March’ the staff/mace shall be brought
to the Trail position for the first six (6) paces, then -

i. bring the staff/mace forward on the left foot and place it on the
ground at the same time as the right foot;
ii. bring the staff/mace, in a circular motion, across the body to the
left breast;
iii. carry the staff/mace out to the full extent of the right arm;
iv. bring the staff/mace back to the Trail position.

Repeat the movement as required.

20. FORM. The staff/mace to be raised obliquely at an angle of 45 degrees, arms

extended above shoulder height, head of the staff/mace pointing in the direction to
which the band will change.

Drum-majors may perform cautionary signals with the staff/mace without penalty.
Signals for Street March and Own Choice Display Marching shall be optional.

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 WORDS OF COMMAND
Words of command should be pronounced distinctly and loud enough to be heard by all
concerned.

Commands that consist of one word shall be preceded by a caution which may be part of
the word itself. The cautionary part of the command shall be given deliberately and
distinctly. The last, or executive part, which as a rule should consist of only one word or
syllable shall be given smartly, as Band (slowly) - Halt (sharply and at slightly higher
pitch). A pause shall be made between the cautionary and executive words of command.

Some jurisdictions require or encourage precautionary statements – such as “Band will

prepare to play” before Band – Ready”. Unless specified in a Regulation or contest
condition, such statements are a matter of personal preference.

Commands must at all times be given with precision. Indistinct and slovenly commands
produce slovenly movements and must be avoided.

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Drum-majors, when giving commands, should stand at ‘Attention’, adopt a correct
bearing, and so be an example of alertness to the band members.

It should be remembered that a command is an order which should be smartly and

promptly obeyed.

BASIC DRILL MOVEMENTS

POSITION OF ATTENTION

Atten-TION - Heels together and in line, feet turned out at an angle of 30 degrees, knees
braced back, body erect and carried evenly over the thighs, shoulders square to the front,
down and moderately back. This should bring the chest into its naturally forward
position without straining or stiffening. The arms shall hang easily from the shoulders as
straight as the natural bend of the arm will allow. Wrist straight. Hand closed but not
clenched. Backs of the fingers touching the thigh lightly, thumb to the front and close to
the forefinger, thumb immediately behind the leg seam of the trousers. Neck erect, head
balanced evenly on the neck and not poked forward. Eyes looking straight ahead and at
their own height.

The weight of the body should be balanced on both feet and evenly distributed between
the forepart of the foot and the heel. The breathing must not in any way be restricted, and
no part of the body should be either drawn in or pushed out.

The position is one of readiness in expectation of the word of command.

STANDING AT EASE

Stand at - EASE - Keeping the leg straight, carry the left foot about 300 mm to the left
so that the weight of the body rests evenly over both feet. The knee is bent just enough to
allow the foot to clear the ground. The hands should remain at the sides as in the position
of Attention.

When the band ‘falls-in’, members should always place themselves in the position of
‘Stand at Ease’.

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 STANDING EASY

Stand - EASY - The arms, head and body may be relaxed but the members shall not
move their feet so that when coming to ‘Attention’ there will be no loss of dressing.
Slouching attitudes should not be permitted. If either foot is moved members are likely
to lose their dressing. At the caution ‘Band’ the correct position of ‘Stand at Ease’ shall
be resumed.

MARKING TIME

Mark - TIME - On the signal, given on the left foot (LRL) the right foot shall be brought
forward and placed beside the left foot. The time shall be continued without advancing
by alternately raising each foot about 150 mm, knees raised to the front, the toe shall
come below the line of the knee, the arms shall be held steady at the sides, the body erect
and steady.

On the signal for Advance/Forward, given on the left foot (LRL), the right foot shall
complete a beat and the forward movement shall be resumed, commencing with the left
foot.

TURNING ON THE MARCH

Left - TURN - Signal given on the left foot (LRL). The right foot is brought forward and
placed beside the left foot with the toe about 75 mm in front, the body still facing the line
of march, THEN pivoting on the right foot the body is turned 90 degrees to the left and at
the same time movement is made in the new direction commencing with the left foot.

Right - TURN - As for above, reading left for right and vice versa.

About-TURN - Signal on the left foot (LRL). Bring the right foot forward and place it
beside the left foot, mark time with the left foot and as the foot is lowered pivot 90
degrees to the right on the right foot, another mark time with the left foot and pivot 90
degrees to the right on the right foot, a beat of mark time with the right foot and step off
in the new direction with the left foot.

Offstep Right Turn - This turn is most useful as it meets the need to step into the right
turn with the LEFT foot. The signal is given on the LEFT foot. The right foot is brought
forward and placed beside the left foot with the toe about 75 mm back, the body still
facing the line of march, THEN pivoting to the right on the right foot the body is turned
90 degrees to the right and at the same time a pace is taken in the new direction with the
left foot.

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 TURNING AT THE HALT

Right - TURN - Keeping both legs straight and the body erect, turn 90 degrees to the
right on the right heel and left toe raising the left heel and right toe slightly in doing so.
On completion of the first movement the right foot must be flat on the ground. The
weight of the body is transferred to the right foot. The left leg shall be straight, the left
heel shall then be slightly raised. Pause one beat in this mode then bring the left heel
smartly into line with the right heel, bending the knee just enough to allow the foot to
clear the ground.

Left TURN - As for above - reading left for right and vice versa.

About TURN - as for the right turn except that the turn shall be 180 degrees. Care must
be taken that the arms are close to the sides when making the turn.

CHANGE STEP

Change - STEP - The advancing foot shall complete its pace and the ball of the rear foot
shall be brought up to the heel of the advanced foot which shall immediately make
another step forward so that the time shall not be lost. Two successive steps being taken
with the same foot.

To change step when marking time make two successive beats with the same foot.

SIDE STEPPING

... Paces Right Close - MARCH. Carry the right foot 300 mm to the right and instantly
close the left foot to it, thus completing the pace. Proceed to make the next pace in a
similar manner and continue without pause until the number of paces ordered is
completed. Shoulders shall be kept square to the front and direction must be maintained
in a straight line to the flank. Knees shall be bent sufficient to allow the feet to just clear
the ground. Side-stepping shall be executed at normal march time.

... Paces Left Close - MARCH. As above by substituting left for right and vice versa.

STEPPING BACK or FORWARD

... Paces Step Back - MARCH. Step back the named number of 750 mm paces direct to
the rear, commencing with the left foot and keeping the arms still at the sides. Stepping
back should not exceed four (4) paces.

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 DISMISSING

Band Fall OUT/Band Dis-MISS - The band shall turn to the right and after a pause of
four (4) beats duration in quick time, break off. Dismiss is to be used when the band
members are no longer required for the day and Fall Out is to be used at all other times
when the band is to leave formation

INSPECTION DRILL

CONTEST INSPECTION - IN MARCHING FORMATION

This section contains the “standard” approach to preparing a band for Inspection, and was
the prescribed method until 2010

1 At the direction of the drill judge, the drum-major shall about-turn and give the
command ‘Band - Attention’; then give the command ‘Band - Cover’.
Bandspersons are required to smartly adjust cover. The drum-major shall then
check the covering and intervals of each file, commencing at the right marker.

2 The drum-major shall then about turn and march back to take up a position in
front of the right marker, right turn, and give the command ‘Band - Right-Dress’,
upon which the bandspersons, with the exception of the right-hand person in each
rank, shall turn their head and eyes smartly to the right and smartly adjust
dressing.

3 The drum-major shall then left turn, march out five (5) paces, halt, right turn and
move forward to the alignment of the front rank, right turn, dress the front rank
and then give the command ‘Front Rank - Steady’.

4 The drum-major shall then left turn and step out two (2) paces, right turn and
proceed to dress the second rank, then repeat the procedure with this and
subsequent ranks.

5 After dressing the rear rank, the drum-major shall right turn and march to a
position three (3) paces past the right marker, halt, left turn, and give the
command ‘Band, Eyes - Front’.

6 The drum-major shall then march directly to his/her position three (3) paces in
front of the centre of the band. Timing shall then cease.

7 The drum-major of the band, after being inspected, may be asked to accompany
the Inspection Judge during his/her inspection of the band. The Inspection Judge
may point out any defects noted and the number of points deducted. At the
discretion of the Inspection Judge, the drum-major may stand ranks ‘at ease’.

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8 When the inspection is completed the drum-major shall return to his/her position
in front of the band.

CONTEST INSPECTION - IN THREE RANKS

Inspection of a band in three ranks is rarely required but may be useful as a training aid.

1 The band shall fall in at the inspection point in three (3) ranks, two (2) paces
(1.5m) between ranks measured from the heel of the front rank person to the heel
of the rear rank person, three (3) paces (2.25m) between the rear rank and
percussionists. Space allowed for each person in the ranks shall be one (1) pace
(750mm) measured from right heel to right heel.

2 At the direction of the drill judge, the drum-major shall about turn and give the
command ‘Band - Attention’, then give the command ‘Band - Open order -
March’. The rear rank and percussion players shall step back two (2) paces,
beginning with the left foot.

3 The next command shall be ‘Band - Cover’. The drum-major shall then check the
intervals and covering, commencing at the right marker. On completion, he/she
shall about turn and march back to a position in front of the right marker, right
turn and give the command ‘Band - Right - Dress’. He/she shall then left turn,
march out five (5) paces, halt, right turn, move forward to the alignment of the
front rank and right turn to face the front rank. The drum-major shall dress the
front rank, giving instructions as ‘Forward No. 3’ or ‘Back No. 7’. When called
upon, members shall move forward or back until the drum-major calls ‘Steady’.
When satisfied that the rank is properly dressed the drum-major shall give the
command ‘Front rank - Steady’.

4 The drum-major shall then left turn and march four (4) paces, right turn to face
the rear rank where he/she shall repeat the procedure of dressing the rank. When
satisfied, he/she shall give the command ‘Rear rank - Steady’. He/she shall then
left turn and march three (3) paces, right turn to face the percussion players and
repeat the procedure of dressing. When satisfied he/she shall command
‘Drummers - Steady’.

5 The drum-major shall right turn and march forward ten (10) paces, halt, left turn,
and give the command ‘Band, Eyes - Front’. He/she shall then march directly to a
position three (3) paces in front of the centre of the front rank, halt, right turn and
assume the position of ‘Attention’. Timing shall then cease.

6 The drum-major of the band, after being inspected, may accompany the
Inspection Judge during his/her inspection of the band. The Inspection Judge may
point out any defects noted and the number of points deducted.

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7 While the front rank is being inspected the drum-major shall stand the rear rank
and percussion players ‘at-ease’ and shall stand the front rank ‘at ease’ while the
rear rank and percussion players are being inspected.

8 To close the band after inspection the drum-major shall give the command ‘Band,
Close Order - March’. The rear rank and percussion players shall step forward
two (2) paces.

CONTEST INSPECTION - IN THREE RANKS - FROM BAND FORMATION

In years past, it was common to inspect a band in three ranks and then proceed
immediately to marching formation, using only drill movements. Again, this may be
useful as a training aid.

1 The band shall fall in at the inspection point in marching formation in four (4 )
ranks plus percussion, and five or six files depending on the number of players on
parade – The distance between ranks shall be two (2) paces (1.5m) measured from
the heel of the front rank person to the heel of the person in the next rank, and
three (3) paces (2.25m) between the rear rank and percussionists. The distance
between files shall be two paces (1.5m) measured from the right heel to right heel

2 At the direction of the drill judge, the drum-major shall about turn and give the
command ‘Band - Attention’, then give the command ‘Band – For Inspection
“Reform Ranks”. Players in the front and rear ranks (fourth rank) will take 1 pace
to the left. The drum major will then give the command “Close order March – the
front rank will take 2 paces back commencing with the left foot whilst the rear
rank (fourth rank) and the percussion section will take 2 paces forward
commencing with the left foot. Care must be taken when stepping forward or back
that players and instruments do no “clash” The drum major will then give the
command ’Open order - March’. The rear rank and percussion players shall
step back two (2) paces, beginning with the left foot. This now means there is 1
pace between players in the files (either 10 or 12 files/players) and there are four
paces between the first and second ranks and three paces back to the percussion
section

3 The next command shall be ‘Band - Cover’. The drum-major shall then check the
intervals and covering, commencing at the right marker. On completion, he/she
shall about turn and march back to a position in front of the right marker, right
turn and give the command ‘Band - Right - Dress’. He/she shall then left turn,
march out five (5) paces, halt, right turn, move forward to the alignment of the
front rank and right turn to face the front rank. The drum-major shall dress the
front rank, giving instructions as ‘Forward No. 3’ or ‘Back No. 9 or 11’. When
called upon, members shall move forward or back until the drum-major calls
‘Steady’. When satisfied that the rank is properly dressed the drum-major shall
give the command ‘Front rank - Steady’.

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4 The drum-major shall then left turn and march four (4) paces, right turn to face
the rear rank where he/she shall repeat the procedure of dressing the rank. When
satisfied, he/she shall give the command ‘Rear rank - Steady’. He/she shall then
left turn and march three (3) paces, right turn to face the percussion players and
repeat the procedure of dressing. When satisfied he/she shall command
‘Drummers - Steady’.

5 The drum-major shall right turn and march forward ten (10) paces, halt, left turn,
and give the command ‘Band, Eyes - Front’. He/she shall then march directly to a
position three (3) paces in front of the centre of the front rank, halt, right turn and
assume the position of ‘Attention’. Timing shall then cease.

6 The drum-major of the band, after being inspected, may accompany the
Inspection Judge during his/her inspection of the band. The Inspection Judge may
point out any defects noted and the number of points deducted.

7 While the front rank is being inspected the drum-major shall stand the rear rank
and percussion players ‘at-ease’ and shall stand the front rank ‘at ease’ while the
rear rank and percussion players are being inspected.

8 To return to marching formation the drum-major will give the command – “For
marching Prepare- March” – the even numbers in the front rank and the odd
numbers in the rear rank will take two paces forward commencing with the left
foot. The drum-major will then give the command “Band - Cover” players in the
front and fourth ranks will take one pace to the right. – (the percussion section
remains fast during these two movements). The band should now be in marching
formation – with two paces between ranks and files and three paces from the rear
rank to the percussion section

BASIC MARCHING EVOLUTIONS

LEFT FIXED PIVOT WHEEL

Signal given on the left foot (LRL), staff/mace raised as a caution several paces prior to
(the whistle sound and) first beat of signal, ferrule pointed to outer flank of wheel.

It is recommended that an Offstep Right Turn be employed to commence this wheel.

The left-hand member of the front rank will become the pivot and shall mark time turning
on the spot sufficient at each beat to align with the outer flank. The front rank shall step
into the wheel and maintain intervals from the pivot. The remainder of the band shall
execute sufficient of an Offstep Right turn to align the left shoulder on the pivot (the
inner file will execute a full right turn) and step into the wheel maintaining correct
position in the formation. The band shall train so that the outer flank rear rank member is
the only member to take a full pace - NOT the outer flank front rank member.

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On the signal to complete the wheel, members shall block for the left turn facing the
angle of their wheel and turn to the front and step out with the left foot. A six-file band
may well train for a 24-beat wheel and a five-file band, a 20-beat wheel.

During the wheel ‘short-pace’ action should be observed.

RIGHT FIXED PIVOT WHEEL

The Signal shall be given on the left foot (LRL). The detail for the wheel will be similar
to that for the Left Fixed Pivot Wheel except that the turn into the wheel shall be a left
turn and the right-hand flank front rank member shall be the pivot.

The longest path in this wheel is taken by the player in the Left-hand rear corner. This
player is the only member to take a full pace. The band will be training to observe this
discipline.

THE WHEEL - RIGHT or LEFT

On a Moving Pivot

On the signal the band shall step into the wheel. The inner flank member of the front
rank shall step short and execute a quarter circle at a radius of at least two (2) metres. The
outer flank members shall complete the wheel taking normal paces. The other members
of the front rank should maintain correct intervals and dressing between the inner and
outer flanks.

The remainder of the band shall step into the wheel adjusting their pace to that of the
front rank. The inner flank guides may close the intervals but the outer flank members
must observe normal intervals. The inner members shall maintain correct intervals and
dressing within their rank and shall follow the path set by their front rank member. There
shall be no side pacing or incline toward the outer flank.

When the front rank completes the wheel and is facing the new direction the drum-major
shall signal ‘Forward’ so that the rank shall continue without any mark time beats.

The remainder of the band shall follow on and shall correct intervals and dressing in
succession.

During the wheel the front rank must not endeavour to keep the drum-major in their
centre. Being three (3) paces in front of the band, the drum-major has a different arc to
follow.

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The number of paces employed in executing the wheel should be decided by the drum-
major in practice. The band should be enabled to complete the wheel so that every
member is pacing comfortably. Correct ‘short pace’ action should be strictly observed.

FRONT-TO-REAR COUNTERMARCH

Detail for a band of six files

On approaching the point for the countermarch, the drum-major shall bring the staff/mace
into an inclined position of about 45 degrees in front of his/her body, ferrule uppermost
and arms fully extended. On reaching the point, he/she shall execute a left about-turn and
move through the centre of the band. The front rank, on reaching the point in line with
where the drum-major turned, shall execute a left about-wheel and pass down the spaces
on their left (see Diagram). Succeeding ranks shall follow the front rank to wheel into
the spaces at the same point at which the front rank wheeled.

When the signal to countermarch is given the bass drummer shall move to cover the third
file so that he/she will pass the drum-major left shoulder to left shoulder, correcting
his/her position after wheeling about.

On completing the countermarch the drum-major may signal ‘Mark Time’ in preparation
for a Flank-to-Flank countermarch.

NOTE - Should it be required that the band will continue forward after the Front-to-Rear
countermarch there shall be no ‘Mark Time’ signal and the band will continue until the
next signal is given.

Detail for a band of five files

The detail is the same as for a six-file band except that the drum-major shall execute a
left about-WHEEL and pass back between the third and fourth files. The bass drummer
has no need to change position.

Please note: It is acceptable for the evolution to be conducted with the drum major and
files turning/wheeling to their right, or for half the files to wheel left and the other half to
wheel right.

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 FLANK-TO-FLANK COUNTERMARCH

On the signal, the right-hand person in each rank (excepting the percussion player) shall
mark time two beats then step forward into a left wheel, passing through the spaces
toward the opposite flank. When they have gone far enough past the drum-major to bring
him/her into the centre of the band they shall mark time. The remaining files shall right
turn and follow to make a left about-wheel at the point where the person in front wheeled
and pass through the spaces to mark time when reaching proper alignment.

The drum-major and percussion players shall mark time two beats then step forward one
pace to continue marking time until the next signal.

When the countermarch is completed the drum-major shall signal for a right turn at which
time the band shall turn to the front and step off in the new direction.
In executing this countermarch ranks shall dress on their original front rank members.
In diagram marching it may be planned to continue marching to a flank. In such an event
the band shall continue the flank-to-flank action until the next signal is given.

GATE COUNTERMARCH

Gate countermarches should be practised and perfected without instruments so that the
chance of a collision between passing files might be eliminated.

Detail for a band of six files.

Signal is the same as for a Front-to-Rear countermarch.

After executing a RIGHT about-turn the drum-major shall march forward nine (9) paces
(or if performing set diagram No. 8, march three (3) paces past CC) and mark time until
the next signal. At the signal the front rank shall immediately step into the wheels. The
right-hand files 1, 2 and 3 shall wheel to the left to complete a 180 degree semi-circle.
The left-hand files 4, 5 and 6 shall wheel to the right to pass through the spaces between
the right-hand files.

There shall be no attempt to retain dressing during the wheels. Files 3 and 4, after
completing the wheel shall march forward to mark time upon reaching correct position
three (3) paces to the rear of the drum-major. The remaining files shall successively
march forward to mark time upon reaching correct alignment.

When the band has reformed facing the new direction the signal ‘Advance/Forward’ shall
be given.

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 Detail for a band of five files.

The action is the same as for a band of six files except that the drum-major shall execute
a Right About-WHEEL.

Left-hand files 3, 4 and 5 shall wheel to the right to complete a 180 degree semi-circle.
Right-hand files 1 and 2 shall wheel to the left to pass through the spaces. After
completing the wheel file 3 shall lead forward to mark time in the correct position in
relation to the drum-major. The remaining files shall successively march forward to
mark time upon reaching correct alignment.

SQUARING A BAND

The following three pages provide some advice on an approach that could be used to train
a band in techniques to establish and maintain correct dressing and spacing

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How to maintain precise spacing between ranks for In order to have good dressing it is essential to have
a band of 5 files the correct spacing between ranks that is 1.5 metres
between ranks. (2 paces) It is permissible to have a
file5 file4 file3 file2 file1 2.25 metres space for percussion and trombone ranks.
= Drum Major 3 or 5 paces to front rank 3 paces are more difficult to maintain and reduces the
o o o o o Rank 1 effect of diagonals.

o o o o o Rank 2 The technique required to square a band in 5 files is

as follows. The centre 3 files form the core of the
o o o o o Rank 3 band. This is the practice of marching by the Centre.

o o o o o Rank 4 The players in files 2 and 4 to take their spacing from

the people in file 3 (the centre) in the rank in front of
o o o o o Rank 5 them. The problem arises when a player in the centre
does not keep accurate spacing. It is difficult for them
o o o o o Rank 6
to space off the person directly in front of them. The
The base of shaft indicates the player and the tip centre file has to judge space from the person to the
of the arrow shows where they should look to maintain left front or right front of them. For the centre file (file
spacing and dressing. The front rank must maintain a 3 3) the technique is to check spacing to the front
or 5 pace interval from the Drum Major. The players in alternatively to the right front, then left front players.
files 2, 3, & 4 do this by observing the point where the The players in file 4 look to their right front and file 2
DM’s left heel leaves the ground, then 3 or 5 paces looks to their left front for spacing. The spacing
later their right heel must hit the ground in alignment technique for the centre three files of the band is to
with that spot. It is easier to keep a 3 pace interval than watch where the right heel of the person they are
5 paces. checking off, leaves the ground and you place your
heel in line with that spot. The outside files (files 1&5)
Diagonal Alignment Drill adjudicators use diagonal need to keep level with the square centre three
alignment to identify problems of covering and files(files 2,3,4 ).When playing it is advisable to check
spacing. Players from ranks, 3,4,5,6 etc can check your position every 4th bar. Players should work in
diagonals to keep correct alignment. pairs to coordinate when to look for covering, spacing
or dressing. The entire band should not be checking
File5 file 4 file 3 file2 file1
position on the same bar, this should be staggered.
o o o o o Rank 1

o o o o o Rank 2

o o o o o Rank 3

o o o o o Rank 4

o o o o o Rank 5

o o o o o Rank 6

The front rank should site lines to maintain a 1.5 metre

interval between files. The following ranks need to
glance to their front and keep directly behind the
player in front of them. Covering the front to the rear
should be straight.

Squaring a band when marching in 5 files. The

following may help with training.

The method of squaring a band in 5 five files is more

complex than 6 files.

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6 file band showing the core and the direction to look to maintain
spacing between ranks The bottom of the shaft is the player and
the tip of the arrow shows where to look. The core of the band is
the reference point for matching by the Centre

= Drum Major

3 paces

o o o o o o Rank 1

o o o o o o Rank 2

o o o o o o Rank 3

o o o o o o Rank4

o o o o o oRank 5

o o o o o oRank 6

F6 F5 F4 F3 F2 F1

DRESSING AND SPACING OF BAND IN 6FILES

spacing reference points

= Drum Major

3 paces
o o o o o o Rank 1

o o o o o o Rank 2

o o o o o oRank 3

o o o o o o Rank 4

o o o o o o Rank 5

o o o o o oRank 6

F6 F5 F4 F3 F2 F1
If all players are at 2 pace intervals diagonals are the easiest way to
check the dressing and spacing of a band. Any player from the Ranks
3, 4, 5, & 6 th rank, can check their position by looking at the
diagonals. The diagrams show the band at 2 pace (1.5 metre intervals.
3 paces is permitted for percussion and trombones.
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 Sight line

The front rank players need to look inwards using peripheral vision to establish
the correct (1,50m) interval between files. With your head erect you need to take
a line over your shoulder to the lower leg of the player in the front rank towards
the centre of the band. This is done when the DM has covered you in the correct
position. It is then done every four bars to maintain your file’s correct Interval

Sight line

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