Color Guard
“The Sport of the Arts”

What is Color Guard?
It's the flash of colorful flags; light reflecting off silver sabers and necks craned high counting revolutions of wooden rifles. It's impossible leaps and turns along with eye-popping sets and costumes. It is one of the most unique activities in the world today, and it enjoys devotees of all ages and backgrounds. Color Guard is rooted in military history but the use of flags, rifles and sabers is the only thing that is traditional. Always challenging the performer and spectator alike, Color Guard constantly redefines itself as the "Sport of the Arts." 

It involves dance, drama, and flag work. It provides students an opportunity to choreograph movement and accent musical rhythms. The guard is the visual element of the marching band.

The Philosophy: 
Throughout our season, we hope to instill a strong sense of self-discipline, self-motivation, and an inner drive for excellence in everything we do. From our performance opportunities, we want guard members to gain the self-confidence to know there is nothing that they cannot achieve, no obstacle they cannot overcome, if they are willing to utilize all of their talents and work hard and long enough. 

Requirements:
Selected by audition demonstrating the following: 
Demonstrate basic maneuvers on equipment (spins, tosses, etc.) 
Demonstrate jazz walking/running ability
Learn and perform a flag routine that will be taught by the Guard Instructor 
            Exhibit outstanding attitude and willingness to work
Members of the guard are not expected to have any dance or performing experience, but must be willing to work and learn how to perform using the flag, as well as dancing and possibly spinning rifle and/or sabre.

Procedures and Expectations:
Because of our determination to make this a positive experience for all of our students, there are certain rules and guidelines that must govern our student behavior and activities. Please remember that participants must conduct themselves in an appropriate manner on and off the field, following all school policies. Violation of these policies (dress code, fighting, public displays of affection, use or possession of alcohol and drugs, etc) may result in dismissal from the guard. All rules found in the band hand book apply, unless told otherwise.

Attitude: 
One of the keys to a successful program is that the proper attitude is present among its members. It is vital that all members cooperate with instructors and student leaders in order to insure the best possible experience for all. Those students that exhibit an unwillingness or inability to do this will be suspended or removed from the program. 

Attendance: 
It is imperative that all members understand that attendance at all rehearsals and performances are mandatory. The schedule for rehearsals and performances may vary according to weather, competition schedule, changes in the show, etc., but every effort will be made to keep changes to the announced schedule to a minimum. Please note that unexcused absences will not be tolerated. Tardy to Rehearsal Attendance will always be taken at the beginning of rehearsals. ALL RULES IN THE BAND HANDBOOK APPLY.
 
Uniforms:
   The price of the costume will vary, but cost effectiveness will be kept in mind as they are chosen. This outfit will change yearly as the costume is chosen based on its merit and ability to uphold the musical integrity of the performance. This is included in the overall fees.

Warm-ups:
These warm-ups will only need to be purchased once throughout your entire time with the  guard. We will use the same warm-ups for each season. 

Make-up and Hair:
The style of hair and make-up will depend upon the show and will be decided by the Guard Instructor.

Rehearsal Schedule for 2003 Color Guard: 
For ALL sectionals students must be wearing appropriate footwear (tennis shoes or jazz shoes) . Proper practice clothing will include either a black leotard/t-shirt with black shorts/ pants, or a black unitard. Layers may be added depending on the weather.
 Also, it is recommended that students always bring water to rehearsals to ensure proper hydration. During show camps we will only drink water/sports drinks and eat light meals. 
Summer Workout Rehearsals- all Marching Band Members must make 4 out of 5.
June 12,19,26 and July 10,17. All will be 4:30-8:30 guard and 5:30-8:30 band 
Regular Practices begin Tues August 5 and run through the end of the season.
Tuesdays 5:30-8:30 and Thursdays 2:45-5:45.

Rehearsal Rules:
Students must be in the gym or band room, with equipment, ready to practice at the predetermined time. 
Absolutely NO food, drinks, candy or gum are allowed on the practice floor. 
Students must have all necessary equipment at every rehearsal. 
To make rehearsal time productive there will be no unnecessary talking. The instructor has the final say as to what is “necessary.” 
Students will follow all directions immediately. 
There will be no running, play fighting, or horseplay in the Band Room or during practice. 
Students must respect our facilities and all equipment, whether it belongs to himself or herself, or another student . 

Estimated dues of performer:
As of right now we have dues at $400.00 . With this money it will furnish the
members uniform and equipment, as well as provide the guard with marching band fees 
 
Estimated Expenses that dues do not cover;
Clear Strapped Body Tights 15.95
Guard Shoes 25.00
Guard Gloves 12.95
Guard Sweat Suit 75.00
Practice Unitard 45.00
Practice Leotard 13.00
Hair -Gel, hairspray, hair pins, and scrunchis
Make-up- Eyeshadow and lipstick (colors will be determined)
Long Sleeved Nude Leotard (optional for colder weather...up to the performer)

Color Guard Contract for Students and Parents

I, ___________________________________(student)  understand the rules of the Central Gwinnett Color Guard . I promise to follow all rules and regulations given by the instructors. I will respect the instructors, other performers, parents and myself at all times. I understand that all of my negative actions will have consequences. 

Student Signature:______________________________________________________

I,____________________________________ (parents) understand the rules of the Central Gwinnett Color Guard , and will make sure that my child(ren) follow  all rules and regulations given by the instructors. I will respect the instructors, performers, and other parents at all times. 

Parent Signature:_________________________________________________________

Thank you,

Tanisha Alexander
Instructor