- Music
checks can be made by
utilizing the extra Marantz Recorder and head phones set up at a station
next to you. It will be your responsibility to inform directors that
they may do so anytime throughout the day. Sticker dots and sharpie
markers will be available for them to use as well as directions on how to
use the recorder and mark their tape properly.
- In most cases,
you will be playing the music on a Marantz
recorder with a mixing board
or Liberty.
The pitch/speed control is on the front of the Marantz and usually has the
same variance as an Apollo. The mixing board has many knobs and
adjustments. Take the time to familiarize yourself with knobs that
can adjust treble, base, volume, etc., before the day begins. Make
sure that all speakers are working properly and that the extension cords
are clearly out of the way of traffic. If you are plugged into a
wall electrical outlet, make sure there is no chance of someone
accidentally pulling the cord out of the wall. It is best to find
one under the bleachers, out of the way. If you have trouble with your
sound equipment, send for C.R., Brad, Doug, or anyone else that might be
able to handle a "sound" situation.
- Always check
the pitch control after
each performance and return to normal, both on the main system and sound
check station.
- Make sure you
have a team list with the directors' names on it.
- You should have
a headset to communicate with the tally administrator in you area.
She should signal you when the judges are 15-20 seconds from being ready
for the next performance. When announcing, you should call
"NEXT UP IS KLEIN OAK, ON DECK IS SPRING AND CROCKETT" to let
them know the order. If there is a change in the performance order,
be sure to announce this several times so the teams, audience, and judges
will know the changes. Also, be sure to tell the tally admin. of the
change on the headsets. It is best to mark changes on your schedule
by using arrows and a red pen.
- When the tally
person has signaled, say "NOW TAKING THE FLOOR, UNDER THE DIRECTION
OF KATHY ARRELANO, THE KLEIN OAK HS STRUTTERS." When the team has
taken their position, say "MUSIC IS ON" to signal the performers
that you are ready to start the music. As their performance is over
and the audience applause begins to fade, say "KLEIN OAK HS STRUTTERS"
as they begin to exit. After a team/ensemble/soloist has performed,
somehow mark this on your schedule by highlighting or marking the name
off.
- If the team
does not hear the beginning of the music, stop it immediately, ask them to
take beginning position and start again. If there is a problem of
any kind with the music that you feel is affecting their performance, ask
their director (if she is next to you) or make a judgment decision to
either stop the music or continue.
- Call for team
reps to pick tapes up either at the end of category or every half
hour. If there is any type of lull in the contest (solos, maybe)
play music very low. You may need to take a bathroom break at
different times than the judges because of music checks. If so, have
the tally administrator take your place until you return.
- Do
your best to stay on schedule.
If you start to fall behind 10-15 minutes, remember that it takes about 45
minutes to one hour to make up that time. Alert the tally administrator
that you need to move quicker so the judges will be aware.
- Make every
effort to speak CLEARLY
and SLOWLY.
Often times the audience only catches the last few words, repeating
yourself can be of benefit especially when making important
announcements. The audience, judges, and performers will thank
you.
- On most
occasions, the announcer is sitting directly in front of the
audience. Remember that you are representing American Dance/Drill
Team® and to present a professional image at all times. Keep well
groomed and energetic in your interactions and in your speaking.
Pretend as if you are looking into a mirror....what you see is what they
hear...and remember to smile!
- The announcer
will need to field several questions and address directors, parents, and
performers. Be sure to get as much information about the contest as
possible and be prepared to answer questions and act on several
requests. |