An Ohio school management consultant and the owner of Carlisle Educational Services, John (J.R.) Carlisle previously held administrative positions with the Cincinnati and Dayton Public Schools. He also has a long history in the musical and performing arts. John (J.R.) Carlisle’s current role as an independent advisor allows him to serve as a judge at national and international competitions for school bands, drum corps, and winter guards.

1. By John R. Carlisle

2.  An Ohio school management consultant and the
owner of Carlisle Educational Services, John (J.R.)
Carlisle previously held administrative positions
with the Cincinnati and Dayton Public Schools. He
also has a long history in the musical and
performing arts. John (J.R.) Carlisle’s current role
as an independent advisor allows him to serve as
a judge at national and international
competitions for school bands, drum corps, and
winter guards.

3.  A close cousin to summer’s marching band and drum
corps programs, winter guard is performed indoors
during the winter months. Unlike color guard events
that commonly take place on football fields or along
parade routes, winter guard events occur in large
gymnasiums or fully enclosed arenas. While color
guard teams typically work with a live marching band,
winter guard teams perform to recorded music that
can span a wide spectrum of musical genres.
Incorporating elements of dance and acrobatics,
winter guard performers utilize equipment such as
flags, rifles, and sabers, which they throw, catch,
spin, and twirl in a dramatic and entertaining fashion.

4.  Known as the “sport of the arts,” winter guard
has grown significantly over the past 37
years. More than 36,000 young people
currently participate in regional winter guard
competitions throughout the United States.