Strolling bands use percussion to create basic rhythms that can have a melody added usually through a wind instrument preferably brass like a sax, trumpet or trombone though clarinets and tin whistles work just as well. We have drawn on folk, African, South American, Carribean and contemporary rhythms. These bands stroll as they play and also move from one site to another where they might play for up to ten minutes depending on the crowd response.

Our bands have drawn on and extended the musical skills of the group. We have made a tin drum band by tuning 20 litre drums which told a story while they played because each drum had a letter on it which spelt BATHURST, but could be moved about on the beat to also spell 'hat burst', 'bath rust', 'rubs that', 'bush tart' etc.

These bands have accompanied other performances, led street processions, drawn crowds for mumming shows and been part of the grand parade. They have usually performed for fifteen to twenty minutes in any hour. Their members have usually been performers in mumming shows as well. In a highly developed form a sax band became an act in the Circus Monoxide show, and another became the electrified band that punctuated the show and performed its own sets as well. They can be used to set up simple dancing involving the audience as much as possible.

It wonderful to see people dancing in the streets and these bands with a few extra characters, who demonstrate and draw in the crowd, can be the catalyst.

Their Form:
Their form is a group of 4 - 10 people, 2 to 6 tunes, eyecatching and sometimes exaggerated costumes and large movement. Banners on rods, flags, ribbons attached to drums and bodies add to the sense of movement and catch people's eyes. They should move as a group with a sense of coordinated, though not necessarily uniform, actions. They play directly to their audience being sure to make friendly and positive eye contact (this is not easy and has to be practised by those not used to it). They can walk, run, stroll, play from the backs of utes and trucks.

Principle make eye contact with the crowd and speak to them directly.
Principle incorporate any event into the performance immediately wherever you can.
Principle spotlight hecklers "Look Murph he likes us. I think I'll give him a kiss/hug, slap on the back, free condom, this apple (which you've just been eating)"

S A F E T Y
The practical work involved in devising celebrations requires the occupational health and safety practices associated with the visual and performing arts. Always put safety first.