How do you guys handle band badges? Specifically blue.
We had traditionally got cadets to a standard where they could play the drums well and take part in the Remembrance Sunday parade, which would then earn them a badge after loads of work (for a blue badge) and then a legit performance at unit level. They’d know at least three tunes very well to be able to take part — corps of drums, no other instruments.
But with the focus on level 3 and having someone qualified to assess that (which seems hard for snare drumming in particular, as I can’t really find materials that would align in real-world speak), it just feels like the barrier to entry is so much higher than a non-specialist cadet organisation should be.
I get the impression that it’s focussing on national performance standard and working back from there to provide progression, but considering how much work needs to go into that as a separate hobby, are we not making the music syllabus a bit too difficult for a keen cadet to achieve?
Especially when looking at parity across the PTS (think of the other blue badges and what is required — even my traditional approach to awarding a blue drum badge is much more involved than blue first aid, for example).
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Pretty sure (sadly can’t check) there is a specific list of required skills for blue side drums in lieu of a grade, in the ACTO?
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I think I’ve missed that. Sounds promising as a list of skills is exactly what I’ve been looking for!
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yes there is
ACTO123 is your reference
Qualification for ‘Blue’ Badge by Assessment
- The appropriate ‘blue’ badge may be awarded to a cadet who has demonstrated their ability by completing the following…:
…b. Drum Badge - Percussionists (excluding tuned percussion):
(1) Perform the following technical elements for the snare drum:
(a) Double stroke roll
(b) Triplet
(c) Paradiddle
(d) Flam
(e) Drag
(2) Perform the appropriate part for their instrument (side, tenor or bass drum, or cymbals) in the following pieces with either:
(a) General Salute
(b) Sunset
(c) Four different 16 beat solos
(3) Perform the appropriate part for their instrument (side, tenor or bass drum, or cymbals) in three march pieces that are regularly used by the band to which the cadet belongs. This demonstration must be carried out on the march with sufficient numbers of the band to ensure the overall sound of the band is maintained.
(4) Demonstrate knowledge of drill and dress regulations for bands and musicians.
(5) Demonstrate correct instrument handling and maintenance.
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Reading further - any musical Blue Badge holder who also plays in the Wing band is eligible for the Silver band too
Even though ability could be identical, they would jump to silver?
I’ve got a cadet who has passed me testimonial from his music teacher saying he is playing to grade three standard. Unfortunately no Sqn or wing band to participate in so those avenues are now forever lost to us.
that is how i read it
but that does mean automatic blue badge