Hickory Guard
Where dance, athleticism, and artistry collide.
Did You Know? You don't have to be a musician to join!
You don’t have to be a musician or even a performer to get started.
How to Join
COMPLETE THE INTEREST FORM AND ATTEND CLINICS!
Step
1
Check your calendar for availability for clinics and auditions!
Clinics and Audition Dates:
Tuesday, May 5th
Thursday, May 7th
Tuesday, May 12th
Students are encouraged to attend two of three dates!
The interest form can be found here:
This doesn't commit you to the Guard, but lets us know you're coming!!
3
Step
Attend the Clinics and Auditions!
No experience necessary! Our world-class Guard Staff will teach you technique and movement!
We're not looking for perfection, but potential and hard work!!
4
Step
Secure Your Spot!!
Once placements are announced, the final step is officially joining the family!
One Team, Two Seasons
The Hickory Guard is the visual heartbeat of the Hickory Band program. We combine elements of contemporary dance, gymnastics, and theater with specialized equipment techniques (flags, rifles, and sabres).
A common misconception is that you need to play an instrument to be part of the Hickory Band program. In reality, the Guard is a world of its own! We are the visual storytellers of the ensemble, and we welcome students from every corner of the school.
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Zero Experience Required: Most of our members join having never touched a flag or a rifle. We pride ourselves on a comprehensive training program. We will teach you every toss, every step, and every spin from the ground up.
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A Place for Dancers: If you have a background in dance, gymnastics, or cheer, you’ll find that Guard is the perfect place to apply those skills in a brand-new, competitive way.
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The Ultimate "Hybrid" Sport: If you love the idea of being part of a team but also want to express yourself artistically, Guard offers the perfect balance of athletic rigor and creative performance.
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All Backgrounds Welcome: Whether you are an athlete looking for a new challenge, an dancer wanting to perform as a part of the largest organization at Hickory High School, or someone just looking for a place to belong, there is a spot for you here.
We don't recruit based on what you can do now, we recruit based on your willingness to learn and your desire to be part of something legendary. If you have the heart, we have the gear.
Fall Season: The Color Guard
During the fall, the Guard is a vital section of the Award-Winning Hickory Marching Hawks.
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Fall guard provides the visual "color" that translates the music into movement and dance. Fall Guard perform on football fields at halftime and compete in regional marching band circuits.
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The guard is a part of the large-scale performances in outdoor stadiums, alongside a massive ensemble of brass, woodwinds, and percussion.
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Coordination with the band, large-scale drill formations, and high-impact visual effects.
Winter Season: The Winter Guard
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This is the Guard's time to shine as the featured performing ensemble. Performing to recorded soundtracks on a decorative floor tarp, the winter season is truly "The Sport of the Arts."
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Winter Guard performs in Indoor gymnasiums and arenas. With the audience just feet away, the focus shifts to intricate choreography and emotional storytelling.
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The Winter Guard is re auditioned and a select group of students who demonstrate Technical mastery, advanced equipment skills, and high quality performance will be placed on the team.
Why Join Hickory Guard?
Being part of our band program offers incredible benefits that last a lifetime
Build Discipline and Teamwork
Create lifelong friendships
Develop musical skills
Perform at competitions and concerts
Leadership development opportunities
College scholarship opportunities
Ready to Join?
Have questions about joining the band? Contact our directors (directors@hickorybands.org)for more information.