Creative Music and Designs for Marching Band, Concert Band and the Indoor Marching Arts
FAQ: Questions & Answers
General:
Q: How do I contact 1-2-3-4 Down Beat?
A: You can get in contact with 1-2-3-4 Down Beat by clicking the "Contact Me" link at the top or sending an email to contactus@1234downbeat.com.
Q: Can I get an original show written?
A: Yes! As coming up with original music can be time consuming we will accept requests for Marching Band Shows: November - March & Indoor drum/guard Shows: May - September. If by some chance we get to booked we will let you know, for your show is special and deserves the right attention.
Q: What is regional protection?
A: It means your group will be the only group to have your show in your region! If you plan to participate at any BOA Grand Nationals, DCI Finals, DCA Finals or WGI World Finals you will also be the only group to have your show!
Q: Can I get your Finale files to make changes to a show?
A: We're sorry, no. It is standard publisher procedure to not let these files out! Once you receive your PDF files you can make the changes you need as sees fit.
Q: What are your payment conditions like?
A: We prefer money up front! Yet we understand that coming up with funds can be an issue. If a certain payment plan needs to be created please contact us with all of your questions, the more we communicate the easier the process will be.
Q: When purchasing a show what time period do I have to perform it?
A: Shows are only leased for the current season of the show type. (I.E. Marching Band Season only) If a show is wished to be used for longer additional permission is required.
Q: Do you have drill writers, guard choreographers or costume designers?
A: Yes! Please visit the Partners Tab for designers. If there are any other questions concerning this inquiry feel free to contact us.
Adjusting and or Editing a Show:
Q: Can you make adjustments "water" or "beef" the wind or percussion book to any of your show?
A: Yes! We can do any adjustments needed to fit the needs of your group. As this can be time consuming additional charges will take place depending on the adjustments as needed. If the changes are minor, adjustments can be done free of charge. Please contact us for more information.
Q: May we change the title of your music?
A: Yes! Though be cautious in the name you choose for your show! Some groups have changed the name of their show and the title reflects a show title by another composer. Soon they are spending half of their time trying to prove the show they have is not the same as the show in question. As long as you have proof the music is different and the name is coincidental matters should be fine.
Q: May our group take liberties with the music?
A: Yes! Being competitive is a big part of these sport of the arts! When picking a show you want it to fit your group to the best of it's abilities. Any alterations you do we're sure will be well thought out.
Q: Can we buy the wind parts without the percussion parts if we so happen to have our own percussion writers?
A: Yes! If a show is desired without the percussion parts arrangement can be made in getting alterations processed. We understand most groups have their own percussion writer/arrangers and entrust them in making their shows percussion book fit more proper to the group. In doing so negotiations to the set price can be made by contacting us.
Q: If we like a music selection to a show is it ok if we change the show concept to fit our group better?
A: Yes! This site does not thrive on the concept being the only means of creating a program for your group. We are aware that some programs love the music to a show, yet the concept is not ideal. Keep in mind that changing the concept will not change the set price of a show!
Q: Can we mix/match music from different shows?
A: I'm sorry no. Although we're ok with changing a shows concept, mix matching music from different shows will go against the "Regional Protection"! If a show is bought and the concept was desired to be changed that show will still be considered in uses for whichever season is taking place!
Ordering a Show:
Q: When is the earliest I can order or reserve a show?
A: Marching Band shows can be ordered or reserved between November - March. Indoor drum/guard shows can be ordered or reserved between May - September.
NOTE: when reserving a show we'll allow up to 30 days for a decision to be made. If by chance a group becomes interested in the show you've reserved a notification will be sent to you stating that another group has shown interest in the same show you've reserved. Thus shortening your decision time and allowing the show to go to the most interested.
Q: When can I expect to receive my show?
A: Once payment has been sent we will notify you that we have received your payment and you can expect your show that same day!