Visual & Conceptual Design
A majority of the time is spent on concept design and then creating a visual element to fully convey that story. Percussive Theater and Winterguard are great mediums to tell a story because there is a definite subtlety that balances on top of a strict tradition of the marching activity. Percussive Theater is a rare form in which the characters are the manufacturers of the music and require high demands from the audience. Winterguard is a great form in that the characters have obvious risks within the choreography and it's obvious to even the uninformed when something isn't exact.
These types of performance demand a non-transitional style of drill writing with a huge emphasis on staging. Abstract forms and sub-set transitions waste crucial time which needs to be utilized to convey story lines and character traits. Extreme time constraints push creativity and require multiple events simultaneously that can become amazing developments if done correctly. Add demands for successful listening situations for performers to execute their lines unhindered and drill writing becomes a unique art.
With all of this in mind the story and concept are conveyed in a well thought-out and organized manor. It is also important to have the ability to adapt to new ideas as well as musical changes throughout the evolution of the show.
The audience will be guided through the story in a creative way while at the same time being entertained all while presenting the performers with opportunities to learn.
[Central Square H.S. winning their 2nd championship in a row.]
Please contact prfblakley@gmail.com to talk regarding visual design, drill writing as well as audio editing and preparation.
See the Visual Portfolio here.
Visual & Percussion Consultation
Sometimes visual programs can be overwhelming or even become stagnant over time. Consultation is a great way to get another set of eyes on a product which can open new doors and add perspective to a show that just needs a little edge. Contact prfblakley@gmail.com to talk regarding consultation.
To see some other visual suggestions click here.
Audio Editing & Compiling
Winterguard and dance groups use edited music to fit the regulations of the competition (usually min/max duration). Editing pulls out redundant elements of mastered audio tracks to seamlessly shorten lengthy songs. Editing can also be used to elongate shorter audio tracks by repeating important sections. Lastly, completed shows can benefit from editing by using it to highlight key phrases and emphasizing the choreography. This can be done simply by panning certain effects or more thoroughly by using filters.
Compiling takes multiple mastered audio tracks and couples them seamlessly together. This is more challenging than editing because of the varied tempos and key signatures as well as the styles of each song. This always works best with similar genres of music.
| © 2011 Patrick R. F. Blakley | patrickrfblakley.com |  |