Electronics Integration and Sound Reinforcement in the 21st Century Marching Arts

This treatise seeks to examine the integration and application of electronics in both the outdoor and indoor marching arts activities. Additionally, this document will provide a primer for students and teachers interested in becoming fluent in sound reinforcement and electronics integration in the marching arts. Electronic instruments, sound reinforcement, and sound design are commonplace in today’s marching arts activities, requiring educators and students to have a basic knowledge of audio gear and software. With the introduction of professional sound reinforcement systems, wireless software, and electronic instruments over the last five years, it has become increasingly complicated to understand and integrate electronics within marching ensembles. Chapter one will explore the history of both Drum Corps International and Winter Guard International, giving further insight into why the introduction of electronics in our activity was so controversial and revolutionary. A brief introduction of electronics equipment will conclude the chapter. Chapters two through four will analyze microphones, wireless systems, speakers, electronic instruments, and computer-based systems and software used in the marching arts. Included in each chapter are diagrams and tables with specific examples of implementation and performance practices over the last ten years. At the conclusion of the treatise, Chapter five summarizes the impact electronics has had on music educators and the marching arts activity, concluding with what the future might hold for amplification and electronics integration and design.