What does it take to start a Winter Guard, Indoor Percussion, or Indoor Winds program at your school. Is now the right time to take the plunge?

In this episode of the Copper State Marching Podcast, host Martin Hebda sits down with Steven Goodman, WGAZ Vice President, and Beth Carlson, WGAZ Color Guard Liaison, for an in-depth conversation about the indoor pageantry arts in Arizona. They discuss the benefits of adding an indoor program, including student recruitment and retention, skill development, performance opportunities, and creating additional pathways for students to find their place within a school community. They also tackle the practical side of getting started. Steven and Beth also share practical advice from their own experiences, emphasizing that a new program doesn't need to start with a huge budget, a complete production, or all the bells and whistles. Sometimes the best first step is simply giving students an opportunity to perform, building interest, and growing from there.

Whether you're a band director considering your first indoor ensemble, an established program looking to expand, or a student or educator curious about the Winter Guard, Indoor Percussion, and Indoor Winds activities, this episode offers plenty of ideas and encouragement to help you take that next step. Don't be afraid to ask questions, start small, and build your program one step at a time!

Message the Copper State Marching Podcast at podcast@azmba.org