UIL REGION 5 and AREA "B" MARCHING BAND CONTESTS
TIMING PROCEDURES

1. When the band is released from the "ready area" on a signal from the flagman on the field, the five-minute pre-performance period will begin. When the OFFICIAL TIMEKEEPER observes that signal, he will start the field clock anduse a stop watch as a backup timer. It is recommended that the band take the shortest route to its pre-performance position on the field. Bands are not being judged at this time and are not expected to march around the perimeter of the field "looking their best" in order to reach their preset points. For example,if a band's show entry begins from the corner of the field opposite the entrance gate, it is perfectly acceptable to march diagonally across the field to its preset point.

2. At the end of the first four minutes, the band will be announced. The beginning of the announcement will signify that the band's "performance time must begin within 60 seconds".

   (Incidentally, the script normally takes less than 60 seconds.)

3. Should one of the directors (or drum majors) of the band indicate to the flag man that the band is ready "prior" to the end of the four minutes, the announcement would then be read promptly.

   PLEASE NOTE: the eight-minute performance time will begin: (a) on the first sound (the drum major's "forward march signal" does not count) or first step following the announcement OR (b) at the end of five minutes [whichever comes first].

   Incidentally, the field clock will be used to indicate "times".

4. REMINDER: According to the "C&CR", a "competing band will be expected to occupy the field for not less than five minutes but must complete its performance in eight minutes". "At the conclusion of its performance each band will have two minutes to exit the field and clear the marching surface of all equipment, instruments & props. The use of either instrumental or verbal cadence is optional. A band that fails to be clear of the field.... OR continues the use of instrumental or verbal cadence at the end of the two minutes will be disqualified".

5. In Region 5 "and" Area B, these rules will be INTERPRETED AS FOLLOWS: When the show has ended, it is advised that some kind of definite signal be given to indicate the end of the performance. Thus, the "time keeper" and "adjudicators" will have no doubt as to when the show has ended. Keep in mind, however, the two-minute exit timing will not begin until the end of eight minutes or the conclusion of the show (whichever comes first).

   Please keep in mind that when the band begins its exit phase, it is no longer being judged, even though the exit may begin before the end of the eight minute time period. If the director chooses to have the band play going off the field, or if a cadence is used, it is recommended that after the band has cleared the field boundaries (the sidelines and/or the goalpost lines), absolutely no further sound be heard coming from the band.....period!!!!! Indicentally, it is quite acceptable to leave the stadium at "route step" (i.e., not in step).