How do I contact you?
Easily enough...at the bottom of each Nikk Nakks page is a link to my email address. If you wish to speak to me directly, email me and I will send you my phone number, or you can email me your number and I will call you.
What do I need to send you in order to get started with music arranging and/or drill design?
For music arrangements, I will need to know the instrumentation of your group, including any strengths or weaknesses, as well as any considerations you would like for me to be aware of. For example, if you have 20 trumpets but only 2 mellophones, it would probably be a wise idea to let me know that. (Actually, it would probably be a wise idea to convert some of those trumpet players, but you get the idea). I will also need a "retainer" fee to begin work, which will usually be about 20% of the estimated cost of the total package.
For drill design, in general, I will need the following from you: A copy of the scores to your marching show, a listing of performers broken down by instrumentation, and any special requests you may have (a company front at a certain spot, a certain drill move, soloist or prop placement). I will send you a document that will allow you to answer all the questions I will need in order to start with drill. Ideally, I would also love to have a CD of the show being played by your kids, but if this is not possible, then any form of music (Midi, Finale file, Wave file, MP3) would be appropriate.
How much will music arrangements cost?
That really depends on several factors. Are the music selections copyrighted, or are they public domain works? If they are copyrighted, then it is your responsibility to track down the copyright holder and ask permission to arrange the music. Some copyright holders charge fees for permission to arrange, some do not. If you would like for me to handle all the paperwork, then there will be an extra $250 cost involved on top of whatever the copyright holder decides to charge you. All in all, unless you simply don't have the time or inclination to do the leg work, it is best if you are the one to handle securing permission to arrange. Also, keep in mind that some copyright holders take a long time to respond, and some will simply not give their permission, so plan ahead. I WILL NOT arrange copyrighted music without securing permission from the copyright holders, and neither should you...it is the law. If the work, however, is public domain, then we have no problems or extra fees...the score just needs to be available.
Another factor affecting the cost is my method of arranging...will I be expected to arrange your score by "lifting" it from a recording? This is much more difficult and will involve higher costs. Obviously, arranging from a score is the more preferable choice. Other factors that affect the cost of an arranging package include: a) length of the music to be arranged (e.g., a 2-minute overture will cost much less than an entire 8-minute show); b) instrumentation to be used; c) difficulty of arrangement desired; d) time frame to have the music ready (e.g., if I have to crank out an arrangement with one week left before your band camp, the costs will be much higher) For more information on all things Music, please visit that section of the site.
What do your scores and parts look like?
Depends on the medium being arranged for. Marching Band scores and parts are printed on 8.5" x 11" (Letter) paper, landscape format. Brass choir scores and parts are also printed on 8.5" by 11" paper, but are in Portrait format. Works for large symphonic ensembles print on 11" x 17" (Tabloid) paper, portrait format, with the parts in letter format. For an example of what you can expect, check out this Marching Band SCORE sample, or this PART sample.
Are Percussion parts available?
For some of my arrangements there are already existing percussion parts that were written for the particular school the arrangement was crafted for. Those percussion parts are NOT included in the price, and are extra (if available). If you need someone to write your percussion book, I can put you in touch with several quality percussion arrangers who would do a great job.
How much will the visual design cost?
Fees are based on the size of your band and the date I receive materials. I prefer to have scores and section numbers by 1 June, so that I can get started early and so that drill writing will not interfere with my own academic schedule. Please check the Pricing page for complete details. I think you will find that this is actually a pretty good deal compared to other drill designers you will find out there. For more information on all things Visual, please visit that section of the site.
What do the drill charts look like?
Drill charts are printed on 8.5" x 14" (Legal) paper, and look like this sample (in PDF form). If you would rather use dots instead of letters, let me know beforehand, and I can accomodate you. I prefer not to use the fancy instrument symbols, because a) they are a pain to load and use correctly, and b) they don't accurately tell you where the spot is on the field, causing some confusion and spacing errors.
Do you suggest props and such for shows?
Only if I'm asked to, and that will include an extra consultant's fee. I generally feel it is best for directors to do this themselves, but if you want me to, I'll oblige in any manner I can.
Can you write auxiliary routines for flags/rifles/sabers?
Alas, I cannot. Although I've had some experience with color guard, it is really not my main thing. I can suggest a few "power moves" that would compliment the drill and the music, but that's really about it. However, I can help put you in touch with a guard instructor if you are in need of one.
What drill design program(s) do you use?
I now use Pyware 3D Java exclusively, and am a beta tester for PyGraphics. In the past I designed drill with Drillquest, which is now defunct. Before that, good old fashioned pencil and paper, baby.
What is your marching experience?
I marched with the Phantom Regiment from 1991-1993 as Lead Baritone, and was Conductor my age-out year (1994). I also marched with my high school bands (I attended Miramar High School 1986-1989 and J.P. Taravella High School 1989-1990, both in South Florida).
Can you fly/drive/boat out to work with us?
This is a tricky question...it all depends on whether or not I have the time. If the time can be arranged, then yes, I can come and work with your band, at your expense which includes the price of the ticket and lodging, if any is required. However, bear in mind that I strive to write my drill so that it can be easily taught by band directors and visual techs. If I've done my job correctly, there is no need to have me come to work with your band.
How flexible are you regarding payment?
I prefer to work in a system that allows all clients to be able to pay on time. To that end, I usually set up a fee payment schedule with each client school. Some schools choose to pay in advance; some schools have to pay over a period of time. As long as I know what is going on at all times, I can be pretty flexible regarding payment. Worst case scenario: We set up a payment schedule that could extend over the course of the entire school year to diffuse the costs. As long as payments are made on time, you'll always be a valued Nikk Nakks customer.
How much time do you need to arrange/design a show? How soon can we have the drill/arrangements?
Obviously, the more time I have, the better and more customized your arrangement/drill design will be. I usually prefer to not accept drill/visual design or music arranging commissions after July 1st, though I will make exceptions if I have open slots. Turn-around time is dependent on how big your band is, how intricate the music is, and how difficult you want the drill. I have never failed to deliver a drill on time, and will forfeit a portion of the fee if I ever do.
What do you do?
Check out my Bio page, accessible from the Navigation Bar at the top of this page.
Is that really how you spell your first name?
Yes.
What if I still have a question that is not answered in this FAQ?
In that case, please feel free to contact me via email by clicking on the email link below. I usually respond within 12 hours, unless I am out of town, and in that case I usually respond within 36 hours.