What is Winter Guard?

Winter guard is a relatively new performance art form that combines elements of music, dance and military precision.  Born out of the drum corps/marching band world, winter guard came into existence about twenty-five years ago.  As an indoor competition, it involves the manipulation (spins, tosses, flips) of equipment including rifles, flags and sabers while moving around the performance space to recorded music.

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What is Color Guard?

The Color guard is an important section of the Big Bad Bear Band, adding the visual aspect to the marching band show. The Colorguard provides the visual interpretation of the music.

Why join Color Guard?

• Incoming freshman will begin their high school experience with a family of approximately 150 members. It is very likely that at least one member of your new family will be in each of your classes, sitting with you at lunch, and will become a life-long friend.
• Colorguard is a team activity that will teach you team skills, leadership, and accountability.
• Colorguard is also a physical activity that will make you stronger physically and mentally.
• You receive high school elective credit for enrolling in zero hour and first period band.

Nationwide, high school colorguard auxiliary units purchase new uniforms for marching season AND different ones for winterguard competitions each school year.  The average cost per uniform is ($150?).  In addition, new flags, rifles and sabres that add visual interest, color and coordinate with the show's theme are purchased.  An average marching band show will have 3-5 different flags per guard member at a cost of $65-80 per flag (LCHS has 12 guard members for the 2011-2012 marching season).  These additional costs are borne by guard members through separate fundraisers as well as band fundraisers, but it is common to obtain some financial support from the band general fund as this benefits the entire band and show. Remember, this is a TEAM competition.

Accomplishments of the La Cueva Colorguard:

• Pageant of Bands 2011 – Outstanding Auxiliary
• Pageant of Bands 2010 – Outstanding Auxiliary
• Cibola Winterguard Invitational 2009 – 2nd Place Scholastic A
• Manzano Winterguard Invitational 2009 – 1st Place Scholastic A