The following describes the course of action which defines and satisfies our Conceptual Design service:

1. Initial consultation: we will correspond with you and your staff to determine your performance goals for the season, discuss possible show ideas you may have (if any), assess the ability levels of your students, and get an inventory of your musical and visual equipment (instruments, implements, etc.).

2. Show formulation: taking the information we receive from the initial consultation, we will formulate the overall concept, keeping ongoing communication with you throughout the entire process, listening to and coordinating your ideas wherever applicable (see "Program Coordination").

3. Show summary: this is the intensive work phase of the conceptual process -- for us, at least. We will produce a detailed show summary which outlines the following:

1. a show title
2. a concept "mission statement" (which will guide and unify the designers)
3. a listing of all musical selections
4. a "timeline" of each production: what happens, and when
5. a detailed explanation of effect including: musical effects, visual effects, coordinated effects, color guard effects (equipment possibilities, flag design concepts, colors, costuming, etc.), staging considerations, body movement/dance concepts, and narration possibilities.
6. possible prop utilization, if needed or desired

Marching band is a musical AND visual activity; outstanding design marries these two elements, and considers them from the first step of the process to the last. Too often, marching band shows are conceived and designed with only one element, either musical or visual, and the other inevitably suffers. We are dedicated to producing outstanding, coordinated concepts and design; this is our job, our livelihood -- much like your job and livelihood is to produce outstanding musicians and performers.

Above all else, clarity of intent plays the biggest role in the overall effectiveness of any artistic production, and it guides everything we do here at Marching Monk. Concept clarity is achieved not only through the actual design of the show (musical arrangements, visual design, etc.), but through the pre-design process as well. Certain situation-specific questions must be answered before a note or rhythm is ever typed into the computer: is the concept simple, strong, and effective? Does it maximize the strengths of your program? Does it make use of all available tools (electronics, props, unique percussion instruments, etc.)? Is the concept fresh, unique, and creative? Will the conceptual intent be appreciated and admired by all: football crowd, competition crowd, judges, your students, YOU?

Our goal is simple: to provide you with a concept that will be talked about long after your final show has been performed.