When guiding around an obstacle, the lead person in the file makes the movements necessary to get
around the obstacle. All other file members follow the person in front of them.
Other Files:
If you are the first person in the file, pivot on the ball of the lead foot in the commanded direction
when the drum major raises his arm. Shorten or lengthen your steps to stay dressed on the guide file.
When your rank has assumed the new direction of march, continue marching at a full step.
If you are not the first person in the file, begin turning at the approximate point that the lead person
pivoted. Shorten or lengthen your steps as necessary to stay dressed on the guide file. When your
entire rank has assumed the new direction of march, resume marching at a full step.
Band Commander/Band Senior Sergeant (if present):
If you are on the outside of the turn, lengthen your steps to stay dressed on the guide file. When
your rank has assumed the new direction of march, continue marching at a full step. If you are on
the inside of the turn, pivot on the ball of the lead foot when the drum major raises his arm. March
at a half step until all members of your rank have assumed the new direction of march. Resume
marching at a full step.
PART E CHANGING MUSIC
CHANGING MUSIC:
When either the band commander or the drum major directs CHANGE YOUR MUSIC, change the music
with a minimum of motion.
BAND COMMANDER'S NOTE: Change the music while the band is at parade rest. If this is not
possible, bring the instruments up, allowing enough time for the band members to change their music before
giving the downbeat.
LESSON THREE
PRACTICAL EXERCISE
The following items will test your understanding of the material covered in this lesson. There is only one
correct answer for each item. When you have completed the exercise, check your answers with the answer
key that follows. If you answer any item incorrectly, review that part of the lesson which contains the portion
involved.
1.
Which of the following is NOT an action of the band commander in a guide around turn?
A. Directs the front rank around objects
B. Lengthens his steps if he is on the outside of the turn
C. If on the inside of the turn, he pivots on the drum major's signal
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