Winter Guard season is in full swing, but for Blu Arrigo (12), this season looks a little different. They have gone from performer to instructor, and share how their experience has helped them excel in this role. They were able to transform the high school guard team through their creativity and knowledge, and have proved guard skills are applicable in higher levels.
This promotion was not unmerited; Arrigo has performed in many advanced guard groups, including Music City Drum and Bugle Corps and Beau Monde Independent. The skills they gained from these programs has granted them the ability to take on the role of instructor.
“I’ve gone to a lot of clinics to learn different parts of choreo, and also I did drum corps. I was constantly learning and changing stuff within that show, and it’s helped me learn how to refine things now,” Arrigo said.
One thing they were able to refine was the theme of the show. The varsity winter guard performance, titled “What the Water Keeps”, was originally a tale about dead pirates, vengeful of their downfall. Arrigo faced challenges when planning choreography to tell this story, so they molded it into something new. Instead of angry pirates, the program tells the story of sorrowful sailors, yearning for life. This switch took the program to a whole new level. Arrigo was able to deliver the story by incorporating facial expressions and decorative silks.
“I feel like I conveyed the feelings by having them look a little sad with parts of hope in their eyes. We also picked some flags that showcase water taking over to pull the viewer into the story,” Arrigo said.
Their creativity and experience made the transition from performer to instructor a smooth one; however, Arrigo still faced challenges while adjusting. They mentioned the difficulties in applying their own skillset to the guard they coached. The High school team has proved to be very different from the higher levels they have participated in, but Arrigo pushes the guard to reach their highest potential. They feel honored to show their fellow guard members that the sky is the limit, and their guard careers don’t have to stop progressing after high school.
“People’s skills aren’t confined to this program. I’ve taken what I’ve been given here, and gone further with it. I want people to know there’s more opportunities to perform in bigger and better ways,” Arrigo said.
The experience Arrigo has been given is very beneficial to their future career. They dream of being a band director, and this instructor role has prepared them to teach high school students in an efficient manner.
“I plan on majoring in music education for college and guard will help me once I get to my job goal of being a high school band director,” Arriogo said.
Arrigo’s accomplishments reflect the dedication and hard work it takes to make high school teams a career. Their skills have shined throughout high school and advanced guard groups, and they will continue to flourish in their professional career. Whether Arrigo is performing or coaching, they are sure to make a creative mark on the program.
