enoughtohold: LGBT Marching Band Megapost: Yes, It’s a Real Thing! And You Can Join!LGBT march

enoughtohold:LGBT Marching Band Megapost: Yes, It’s a Real Thing! And You Can Join!LGBT marching bands are part of a beautiful musical tradition dating back to 1978, and joining one is one of the most fun and rewarding ways to connect with your local community!LGBT bands march in pride parades all across the US, and have also performed at holiday celebrations, protests/rallies, sporting events, and both of President Obama’s inaugural parades.Where are these bands?Browse the member bands of the Lesbian and Gay Band Association or check out the map and list below to find a band near you!LGBT Marching and Concert BandsDesert Overture (concert only), Phoenix, AZGay Freedom Band of Los Angeles (concert only), Los Angeles, CARevolution Los Angeles (marching only), Los Angeles, CADesert Winds Freedom Band (concert only), Palm Springs, CASan Francisco Lesbian/Gay Freedom Band, San Francisco, CAMile High Freedom Bands, Denver, CODC’s Different Drummers, Washington, DCSouth Florida Pride Wind Ensemble, Ft. Lauderdale, FLCentral Florida Sounds of Freedom, Orlando, FLTampa Bay Pride Band, Tampa, FLAtlanta Freedom Bands, Atlanta, GALakeside Pride Music Ensembles, Chicago, ILPride of Indy Bands, Indianapolis, INFreedom Trail Band, Boston, MAEquality Band of Michigan, Lansing, MIBandTogether, St. Louis, MOMinnesota Freedom Band, Minneapolis, MNMid America Freedom Band, Kansas City, MOEncantada, The Band of Enchantment, Albuquerque, NMLesbian & Gay Big Apple Corps, New York, NYFlower City Pride Band, Rochester, NYCharlotte Pride Band, Charlotte, NCTriangle Pride Band, Raleigh, NCBlazing River Freedom Band, Cleveland, OHCapital Pride Band, Columbus, OHRose City Gay Freedom Band, Portland, ORPhiladelphia Freedom Band, Philadelphia, PAOak Lawn Band, Dallas, TXHouston Pride Band, Houston, TXPride of San Antonio Showband, San Antonio, TXRainbow City Band, Seattle, WAMelbourne Rainbow Band, Melbourne, AustraliaRainbow Concert Band (concert only), Vancouver, CanadaLondon Gay Symphonic Winds (concert only), London, UKDo I have to audition?No! The vast majority of these bands require absolutely no auditions! Musicians of all skill levels are welcome.What’s the rehearsal and performance schedule like?Some bands may only march in one or two parades per year, while others perform year-round! But in general, summer is marching season, and most bands will rehearse a few hours a week for at least a few weeks before the busy season. You’re not required to participate in every performance.When can I join?Any time! If you join mid-season, your band will let you know if it’s too late for you to do a particular gig. But most of the marching bands start rehearsing in spring, so it’s an especially great time to join!What kind of music do they play?Mostly pop music! Check out a few of my personal favorite videos: DC’s Different Drummers performing “Bad Romance” and the Lesbian & Gay Big Apple Corps performing “Shut Up and Dance” and “Uptown Funk”:Search YouTube for videos of your local band to see them in action!Do I have to have my own instrument?It’s ideal if you do, but reach out to your local band. They may be able to offer you a short-term or long-term loaner instrument, or help you find an affordable rental.What if I’ve never marched before?You’ll get the hang of it! These are fun groups and don’t require perfect form. But let your band leaders know to make sure you get the practice you need.Do I have to be [insert identity here]?These bands are open to everyone. All that’s not welcome is bigotry.What if I’m under 18?Most of the bands are for adults, but check your local band’s site. If you’re a minor but you really want to join anyway, send them an email and they’ll figure out if there’s any way you can participate.Does it cost money?Most bands have membership dues that fund the operations of the group. But if you can’t afford the dues, please let your band know! These are non-profit organizations and many bands have funds available for members with financial need.Does this mean there’s LGBT color guard!?Yes! Most of these bands have a color guard. Go forth and toss flags!I don’t play a band instrument or spin flags. Can I still participate?Sure! Your local band would probably love more volunteers, such as banner carriers, drivers, photographers, people to give tired marchers water, staff for concerts, etc. Reach out to them. You might also look into other LGBT community music organizations, such as orchestras and choruses.I’m not so into marching. Are there LGBT concert bands?Yes! All the bands listed have concert ensembles as well unless otherwise noted. Some also have jazz bands and smaller chamber groups.There’s no band in my area. Can I start my own?Go for it! If you’re serious about starting an LGBT community band, contact LGBA and maybe they can help.I have another question.Contact your local band and they’ll tell you everything you need to know!Happy marching! -- source link

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