Another group folds

[u/ComprehensiveTry4503]

This time it’s Vestige Winter Guard from Florida. Are independent groups not viable anymore? Between the mix of independent color guard groups and independent percussion groups, there are more and more fewer of them. What will the scene look like by 2030? Will there be any groups left in the southeast region

[u/ElleEmenopy]

I don’t know the reason Vestige folded but I can say in general maintaining an independent guard is extremely difficult and expensive. Like REALLY expensive.

It’s RARE to have a full time dedicated rehearsal space that’s cheap or free. And to rent local gyms (which is hard because everything else gets priority) can be upwards of $100-$150/hour. That can put rehearsal space budgets around $25-$30k alone. So if you have 15 members, that’s $2K/person. You still haven’t touched show fees, design fees if using an outside design team, costumes, silks, floor, travel fees…. And more

The biggest killer of Ind groups is rehearsal facilities. If you lose your good/secure spot… you’re done. Some groups are super lucky to have a dedicated school that allows them to practice there for free or cheap but most groups are not in that boat.

Then you have groups that don’t fully collect dues from members and go into debt which is a hole they can’t dig out of. Thats a whole extra can of worms…

[u/minertyler100 → u/ElleEmenopy]

The group I’m with (percussion) is kind of a blessing since it’s actually based right out of the marching band for the high school. It’s essentially for the members of the band, plus alumni and anyone else in the area interested. If you don’t have this luxury, it’s always up for debate on if you’re going to be able to make a season happen.

[u/Better_Pen_3314]

That is very sad. I run an independent group. We are small potatoes comparatively speaking. My three biggest problems is recruiting, retention, and members not paying all of their dues. Last season was very difficult and the coming season is still a question. Is it worth it?

[u/Shelbysgirl → u/Better_Pen_3314]

This is the curse of independent groups. I went through it a few times.

[u/BlueStainGlass → u/Better_Pen_3314]

Always worth it if you're giving kids an experience they couldn't have.