After a remarkable 2024 season, STRYKE Percussion is gearing up for another exciting year in 2025. STRYKE Wynds, fresh off back-to-back championships at the WGI World Class Championships, are ready to defend their title once more. What is STRYKE Percussion? STRYKE Percussion is a leading indoor drumline group celebrated for its captivating performances, cutting-edge show concepts, and musical precision. Competing at an elite level, STRYKE Percussion offers members a platform to enhance their percussion skills in a dynamic, collaborative setting, pushing their artistic limits and achieving new heights in musical performance. What is STRYKE Wynds? STRYKE Wynds is a top-tier indoor winds ensemble recognized for its excellence in brass and woodwind performance. With a record of consecutive championships at the WGI World Class Championships, STRYKE Wynds delivers powerful, emotive music coupled with complex visual elements and choreography, setting a new standard for indoor wind ensembles. Join the STRYKE Family! Auditioning for STRYKE is more than just a chance to perform—it's an opportunity to become part of a community that thrives on growth, unity, and excellence. By joining STRYKE, you’re not just becoming part of an ensemble; you’re joining a family dedicated to pushing artistic and musical boundaries. Audition Dates: - STRYKE Percussion: September 15th & 29th, 2024 - STRYKE Wynds: October 6th & 20th, 2024 Location: Hialeah Gardens High School Early Bird Special: Register before August 31st to receive a $10 discount! Visit stryke.org for more details and to sign up!   ABOUT FMBC The Florida Marching Band Championships (FMBC) is a leading organization in the marching arts dedicated to the advancement of the marching arts in Florida. With a rich history of promoting musical excellence, FMBC provides a platform for young musicians to showcase their talent, learn, grow, and inspire others.

Creating a structured system of protocols for rehearsals, as well as maintaining the housekeeping and upkeep of a program's facilities, is vital for the success and sustainability of any marching band or musical ensemble. A well-organized rehearsal environment and clean facilities not only enhance the performance quality but also foster a sense of discipline, responsibility, and pride among students and staff. Streamlined Rehearsals: The Key to Efficient Practice Structured protocols for rehearsals are essential in maximizing productivity and ensuring that each session is utilized to its fullest potential. By establishing a consistent routine, students know exactly what is expected of them, which minimizes downtime and confusion. Clear guidelines on punctuality, warm-ups, sectional practices, and full ensemble rehearsals create an environment where focus and efficiency are prioritized. This systematic approach allows directors to spend more time on refining performances and less time on logistical issues, ultimately leading to higher quality performances. While nobody enjoys micromanagement, structure and organization is always a welcomed tool to create success! Moreover, rehearsals with established protocols teach students valuable life skills such as time management, discipline, and teamwork. These skills are not only crucial for their musical development but also for their personal growth and future endeavors. A structured rehearsal environment promotes a culture of respect and professionalism, where each member understands their role and contributes to the collective goal. Facility Maintenance: A Reflection of Program Excellence The physical environment in which a marching band and any musical ensemble operates is equally important. Maintaining clean and well-organized facilities reflects the pride and dedication of the program. Establishing protocols for housekeeping ensures that practice areas, instrument storage rooms, and rehearsal spaces are kept in top condition. This not only preserves the longevity of equipment and instruments but also creates a positive and motivating atmosphere for students. Regular upkeep of facilities involves assigning specific tasks to students, staff, and in many cases parents, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility. Whether it's ensuring that rehearsal spaces are free of clutter, instruments are properly stored and maintained, or practice fields are kept in good condition, these tasks contribute to a well-functioning program. Clean, well-maintained facilities also provide a safe and comfortable environment, reducing the risk of accidents and damage to valuable equipment. The Bigger Picture: Building a Culture of Excellence Ultimately, establishing protocols for rehearsals and facility upkeep is about building a culture of excellence within the marching band program. When students, parents, staff, and even administration see the importance placed on organization, discipline, and respect for their environment, they internalize these values and carry them into every aspect of the groups performance and create an additional level of respect for the program . This culture of excellence not only improves the immediate outcomes of the program but also instills lasting life skills in its members. In conclusion, the success of a marching band program stands firmly on the establishment of structured protocols for both rehearsals and facility maintenance. These protocols create an efficient, disciplined, and positive environment that enables everyone involved to focus on what truly matters: the pursuit of musical excellence, and vital life skills. By fostering a sense of responsibility and pride, these systems lay the foundation for a thriving program that can achieve its highest potential year after year. ABOUT ERIC LEVY Eric is an avid music educator with a specialization in percussion performance, and music composition. With an extensive background in teaching around the world, Eric has worked with multiple Championship & Finalist programs involved in FMBC, Bands of America, WGI, and other performing organizations. No matter the time of year, you can easily find Eric working on a project or teaching an ensemble while embracing his mission to make sure everyone has the opportunity to experience success as a performer. You can find out more about Eric at www.musicbyericlevy.com ABOUT FMBC The Florida Marching Band Championships (FMBC) is a leading organization in the marching arts dedicated to the advancement of the marching arts in Florida. With a rich history of promoting musical excellence, FMBC provides a platform for young musicians to showcase their talent, learn, grow, and inspire others.

Happy Summer, Marching Band Enthusiasts! We're thrilled to announce a fantastic opportunity to kickstart your season with the 2024 Summer Session, presented by our friends at Ultimate Drill Book (UDB). Join us for an engaging one-day clinic on July 19 at University High School in Orlando, just a day after the FBA summer convention. Register Now What to Expect: No Cost and Lunch Provided: Enjoy a full day of learning and networking without any registration fees, and lunch is on us! Incredible, Interactive Sessions: Gain a wealth of knowledge and practical tips to elevate your program for the season ahead. Network & Connect: Meet other directors, staff, and administration from across the State to share ideas and build your network. Highlights Include: Drill Learning Tips and Tricks: Participate in interactive sessions with UDB experts to enhance your drill teaching techniques. Roundtable Discussions: Engage in meaningful conversations with some of the States most prolific band directors about building legacy programs and teaching fundamentals to today's students—all while enjoying your vacation. FMBC Season Overview: Get a comprehensive look at the upcoming FMBC season and what to expect. Schedule and Registration: 9:30 am | Registration 10:00 am | 4 Ways to Upgrade Your Drill Learning Process 12:15 pm | Building A Legacy Program featuring Dean Calmer, Mara Rose-Bruce, Steve Rivero, and Josh Velez 1:30 pm | Teaching Fundamentals while Enjoying Your Vacation 2:45 pm FMBC Director's Advisory Board Register Now And as a special invitation, join us on July 18th for a "Tee Party" at Top Golf Orlando presented by our sponsors. Come out for this social event and network with others in the FMBC community! Have any questions? Feel free to reach out. And don't forget to invite a friend—we can't wait to see you there! Let's make this summer a time of growth, learning, and preparation for an outstanding marching season ahead. See you in Orlando! ABOUT FMBC The Florida Marching Band Championships (FMBC) is a leading organization in the marching arts dedicated to the advancement of the marching arts in Florida. With a rich history of promoting musical excellence, FMBC provides a platform for young musicians to showcase their talent, learn, grow, and inspire others.

To view complete schedules please use the link below.

Dear Band enthusiasts, We are 1 week away from the 2023 FMBC State Championships...and I know everyone is excited, and maybe nervous, and maybe even overwhelmed. It's time to believe in the process, and the fabulous band kids across the state...they've got this! Remember: “Genius is 10% inspiration, 90% perspiration.” —Thomas Edison So, keep inspiring, and keep perspiring...it's worth the effort!!! Sincerely, - Cathy 2023 FMBC Championships is right around the corner, and you can begin to purchase your tickets for each event! VIP tickets are now now available as well, and typically set out quickly. Use this link to see each location and get more information --TICKET INFORMATION-- Be sure to SUBSCRIBE to our newly formatted blog & news section to stay up-to-date and informed about events, tips, and other important announcements throughout the year.

The moment we've all been waiting for has arrived! We are thrilled to announce that the schedules for this year's FMBC Championships Prelims are officially LIVE and ready for viewing. Directors and Staff: Now is the time to plan, prepare, and strategize for an incredible day of music and performance. Dive into the schedules to ensure your band's needs and itineraries are ready for the day of competition. Parents and Fans: Get ready to show your support and watch your children and friends shine on the big stage! These schedules are your key to planning your day and making the most of this unforgettable event. CLICK HERE TO SEE SCHEDULES General Admission and VIP Tickets: Secure your seats and be part of the magic. General admission and VIP tickets are now available for purchase via Hometown Ticketing. Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to witness the best of the marching arts in action. 🎫 Purchase your tickets here: Hometown Ticketing Mark your calendars, set your alarms, and get ready for a day filled with music, camaraderie, and outstanding performances. About FMBC: The Florida Marching Band Championships (FMBC) is a leading organization in the marching arts dedicated to the advancement of the marching arts in Florida. With a rich history of promoting musical excellence, FMBC provides a platform for young musicians to showcase their talent, learn, grow, and inspire others.

Navigating the Midpoint of the 2023 FMBC Marching Season As we find ourselves nearing the close of the 2023 FMBC season, the journey toward excellence in the marching arts continues to unfold. This phase presents a unique opportunity for us to dive deeper into the intricacies of our shows, to grasp the invaluable insights provided by our esteemed judges, and to fine-tune our path to success. In this article, we'll delve into the art of interpreting judges' scores and tapes, and explore how to utilize these critiques effectively as well as the importance of the judges' rubric as a guiding light. The Score Behind the Score: Judges' Tapes Judges' scores are more than just numbers; they are a reflection of your show's strengths and areas for improvement. The real treasure lies in the feedback tapes, where judges offer valuable insights into their assessments & thoughts of your program. Remember that a helpful or positive tape doesn't always translate to the highest score, and conversely, a lower score doesn't necessarily mean a negative or unconstructive critique. 1. Why the Score? Understand the WHY Behind the Numbers: When deciphering judges' feedback, look beyond the numbers. Judges often provide detailed commentary on specific aspects of your performance. These insights reveal the "why" behind the scores, helping you understand what elements of your show impressed them and where there is room for growth. 2. Real-Time Feedback: A Dynamic Learning Tool: Embrace judges' tapes as a real-time learning opportunity. The feedback they provide during the performance is like a mirror reflecting your show's progress. Use it to adapt and fine-tune your approach, ensuring continuous improvement. Listen both with intent and awareness by following along with their comments, the inflection in their tone, and what sticks out to them the most through the tapes. Sometimes the smallest thing can have the biggest effect on a viewers perception of your show. The Power of the Judges' Rubric The judges' rubric is your compass, guiding you toward a clear understanding of how well your show is executed, displayed, or designed. At this point in the season, it becomes a critical tool for evaluating your performance objectively. 3. Reference the Rubric: Your Blueprint to Success: Always have the judges' rubric at your fingertips. It breaks down every element of your show into numerical values, offering a comprehensive overview of its strengths and weaknesses. Utilize this resource when reviewing scores to pinpoint areas that need attention. Using the box system may seem confusing at first, but look at it thoroughly using the keywords that are attached: Rarely, Infrequently, Sometimes, Usually, Always. All of those words are things that you can utilize through the educational process to help both your students & staff understand where excellence, consistency, and clarity comes from and how it can be improved or achieved. Evaluate your show and be honest in knowing which boxes your ensemble fits into each time. 4. Plan of Attack: Enhance, Adjust, Clean, or Redesign: Now is the time to strategize for the final stages of your show's journey. Assess whether your ensemble should commit to its design, or start making minor adjustments while diving into cleaning. Every group is unique; the key is to find the approach that works best for your band. 5. Consistency is Key: The Mindset Shift: Encourage your students to embrace consistency in performance and execution. Rather than constant redesign, focus on perfecting what you have. This shift in mindset allows for cleaner, more refined performances that resonate with audiences and judges alike. In discussion, judge Sean Phillips from Georgia mentions, “you decide which comments are changes you’d like to implement. It’s a judge’s first time seeing the show so not all comments are meant to create massive design changes — they’re simply suggestions. But if you hear a trend from multiple judges, highly consider making adjustments to those specific moments of your show” Remember that there is no one-size-fits-all approach in the world of marching band. Success stories abound of groups that meticulously planned far in advance and those that completely reimagined their shows mid-season. The path you choose should align with your band's identity, goals, and unique strengths. Remember feedback and comments that you receive from judges, and ideas from this article as you design your show next year. Be sure to evaluate these ideas early in your season as that can be the difference between making minor adjustments, or redesigning your entire show. As we navigate the final stages of the 2023 FMBC season, may your shows shine even brighter, your students perform with unwavering dedication, and your staff continue to lead with passion and purpose. Together, let's harness the lessons of the judges' feedback and the guidance of the rubric to chart a course towards excellence. **SEE THE FMBC ADJUDICATION SHEETS HERE** (Marching band photos courtesy of KVoorhees Photography) About FMBC: The Florida Marching Band Championships (FMBC) is a leading organization in the marching arts dedicated to the advancement of the marching arts in Florida. With a rich history of promoting musical excellence, FMBC provides a platform for young musicians to showcase their talent, learn, grow, and inspire others.

During Weeks 4-6 of the FMBC competitive marching season, there have been an immense amount of great things happening across the State! From Florida Bandmasters Associations MPA to the Bands of America Regional(s), ensembles throughout Florida have demonstrated what perseverance, hard work, and consistency looks like on a daily basis. The week 4-6 FMBC Regionals included the following events: West Coast Invitational (Durant HS), Golden Eagle Classic (Fleming Island HS), Lancer Jamboree (John I. Leonard HS), Lightning Tournament of Bands (Lehigh HS), Tampa Bay Fall Music Games (Riverview HS), Music in Motion (Lakewood Ranch), East Lake Classic (East Lake HS), Ocala Marching Band Festival (West Port HS), University Classic (University HS), Outdoor Marching Music Festival (Tarpon Springs HS), Festival of Bands (Jupiter HS) 🏆 Congratulations to the Week 4-6 Grand Champions! 🏆 Congratulations to all bands on their recent MPA evaluations, and THANK YOU to all the participating bands, directors, students, parents, and fans who continue to support each event and make Florida THE place for the marching arts! ABOUT FMBC The Florida Marching Band Championships (FMBC) is a leading organization in the marching arts dedicated to the advancement of the marching arts in Florida. With a rich history of promoting musical excellence, FMBC provides a platform for young musicians to showcase their talent, learn, grow, and inspire others.

Week 3 of the FMBC competitive marching season unfolded with awe-inspiring performances, fierce competition, and unforgettable moments. Bands from across the state converged to showcase their dedication and artistry. The week 3 FMBC Regionals included the following events: West Coast Invitational (Durant HS), Golden Eagle Classic (Fleming Island HS), Lancer Jamboree (John I. Leonard), Lightning Tournament of Bands (Lehigh HS) 🏆 Congratulations to the Week 3 Grand Champions! 🏆 We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the participating bands, directors, students, parents, and fans who continue to make each event a fantastic experience of music and magic! ABOUT FMBC The Florida Marching Band Championships (FMBC) is a leading organization in the marching arts dedicated to the advancement of the marching arts in Florida. With a rich history of promoting musical excellence, FMBC provides a platform for young musicians to showcase their talent, learn, grow, and inspire others.

Dear FMBC fans, The weather has been a bit more cooperative across the State this past week and we're noticing lots of social media posts claiming many successful rehearsals and performances. This upcoming weekend starts the 2nd half of our competitive season. So, keep working hard, having fun and bringing joy to others through your music. This week's hint: (Saw this on a Facebook post) "Every run through, pretend the TV cameras are focused on YOU. " Stay tuned, work hard and Keep on Keepin' on!! - Cathy 2023 FMBC Championships is right around the corner, and you can begin to purchase your tickets for each event! VIP tickets are now now available as well, and typically set out quickly. Use this link to see each location and get more information --TICKET INFORMATION-- Be sure to SUBSCRIBE to our newly formatted blog & news section to stay up-to-date and informed about events, tips, and other important announcements throughout the year.

Dunedin, FL FMBC is thrilled to announce a new production partnership for the 2023 FMBC Marching Band Championships: CA Video Pro is set to be the official livestream producer and filming brand for this year's spectacular event, scheduled to captivate audiences in Clearwater on November 11th, 2023. With a reputation for top-tier video production and a passion for the marching arts, CA Video Pro brings an unparalleled level of expertise to capture every beat, step, and breathtaking moment of the FMBC Championships. This year's championship event will be available during the day of competition via livestream, and post-event via Video-On-Demand. To find out more about pricing and other information, visit www.CAVideoPro.com About FMBC: The Florida Marching Band Championships (FMBC) is a leading organization in the marching arts dedicated to the advancement of the marching arts in Florida. With a rich history of promoting musical excellence, FMBC provides a platform for young musicians to showcase their talent, learn, grow, and inspire others.

The third week of the marching season has dawned upon us, and we find ourselves at a pivotal crossroads in the journey toward excellence. By now, your ensemble's show is likely taking shape, with music, drill, and choreography weaving together into an amazing production. However, as we enter this crucial phase, it's time to shift our focus. It's time to move from simply getting the show onto the field to perfecting every nuance, logistics, and detail surrounding your performance. So in this article, we'll explore how directors, instructors, students, and dedicated band parent volunteers can work together to fine-tune every aspect of your production, from setup to exit and embrace the finer points of etiquette and leadership that set exceptional programs apart. Welcome to Week 3 of the competitive season! Mastering the Art of Setup and Logistics As the saying goes, "It's not just the destination; it's the journey." In the world of marching band, this couldn't be more accurate. Your show is not just about the performance; it's about the entire experience, from the moment you step onto the field to the last note echoing in the stands. 1. Perfecting the Entry: The journey begins with the entrance onto the field: every step, every formation, and every detail matter. Take the time to rehearse the full entry with accuracy, vision, and precision. Ensure that everyone knows their place and timing, and remember that confidence starts with strong fundamentals and clarity through understanding. 2. Front Ensemble Setup: For those with a front ensemble, timing is everything. Work out the logistics of getting your equipment onto the field swiftly and seamlessly. Discuss and practice where and when each piece will be placed, who is responsible for power (if applicable), and what the full process is to minimize setup time. All be conscious of the boundary rules which now include a 15-foot penalty line for the performer's area, from the sideline forward. 3. Volunteer Responsibilities: Band parents and volunteers play a pivotal role in your success. Assign and communicate responsibilities clearly. From prop crew to uniform managers, their dedication ensures your focus remains on the performance. Dictate your needs and expectations, and reassure them of why they are so important to the success of your program. Be sure to carefully explain the way YOUR program does it, isn't always the same as everywhere else and there may be reasons that work specifically for you. These details can go a long way. 4. Flow of the Show: Think of your show as a book, from the front cover to the back jacket with everything nicely woven in between. Each moment should flow seamlessly into the next. Rehearse the transitions, cues, and changes diligently, ensuring that there's a natural progression from the first note to the final chord. But the most important step is connecting everything including the setup to the exit, as that is what ensures the performers get used to the feeling of going from 0-60 every single time without having to worry about new variables on show day. The Art of Pre-Performance Rehearsals The final product you present on the field is more than just the music and choreography; it's the culmination of every detail rehearsed to perfection. 5. Pre-Performance Etiquette: Teach your students not just what happens on the field but also how to conduct themselves off it. Encourage respect and sportsmanship when walking around the event, whether as a group or as individual students. Remember, you are ambassadors of your program. 6. Retreat Protocols: Your student leaders should have retreat protocols in place. Everyone should know where to stand, when to salute, and how to respond during the awards ceremony. These moments reflect your program's character and poise. Inspiring Leadership 7. Student Leadership: Empower your student leaders to set the tone for your ensemble. They should lead by example, not just on the field but in all aspects of your program. Encourage them to inspire and mentor their peers. 8. Positive Atmosphere: Create an environment where all students feel supported and encouraged, not just within your ensemble but with fellow competitors too. A positive atmosphere fosters growth and mutual respect. As we embrace this pivotal juncture in our season, remember that success lies in the details. It's about perfecting every aspect of your performance, from setup to exit, and embodying the values of respect, poise, and leadership. Together, we can make this season one for the books, leaving a lasting impact not only with our music but with our character and dedication as well. Remember, "The way you do anything, is the way you do EVERYTHING!" About FMBC: The Florida Marching Band Championships (FMBC) is a leading organization in the marching arts dedicated to the advancement of the marching arts in Florida. With a rich history of promoting musical excellence, FMBC provides a platform for young musicians to showcase their talent, learn, grow, and inspire others.