What do I offer?
I can provide whatever services you need. From show design to arrangements, from sound design to drill design...if I don't do it I have partners who can. You'll always receive my personal guarantee of quality which includes rewrites within reason. I will not cut and run when the show is written. I want to make sure that you and the students are happy with the end product. See below for just some of our services.
Our Services
We provide a comprehensive suite of music services tailored to meet the unique needs of band directors and artistic directors. Our focus is on collaboration, customization, and creating exceptional musical experiences.
Arrangements & Compositions
As your marching/concert band arranger/composer, I create custom charts and originals with balanced voicing, achievable ranges, integrated percussion/electronics, and drill-sync moments—delivering high-impact, teachable, adjudicator-winning music tailored to your ensemble. One composer, total cohesion.
I am also available for concert band or wind ensemble commissions!
Show Design
As your all-in-one show design consultant, I streamline every phase: theme and narrative tailored to your band’s strengths; drill via Pyware/EnVision for precise, safe, high-impact visuals; music arrangements with balanced voicing and integrated features; guard choreography synced to drill/music with innovative equipment work; plus props, costumes, and rehearsal plans. One cohesive partner delivers a polished, competitive show—faster, smarter, championship-ready.
Instruction and Clinics
I love guiding young musicians to reach their full potential through hands-on clinics in leadership, marching, and music. As a drum major for 11 years in high school and drum corps, I know exactly what it takes to step up, lead with confidence, and support your staff’s vision. I offer virtual or in-person clinics, mentorship, or instruction—whether for a single day or a full week. Let’s talk and inspire your students to shine!
Why Choose Chris Kilian Music?
Ditch the cookie-cutter “box shows” for custom fire! I’m your direct-line design partner—arrangements, compositions, adjudication, instruction—all infused with collaborative energy and diverse influences. No middlemen (my wife doesn’t even touch emails!). Let’s craft a show that’s 100% yours and blows judges away.
The Heart of What I Do...Music!
My arrangements and compositions are tailored specifically for your organization. We collaborate closely to ensure the final product reflects your unique style and requirements. I always write with the overall vision and the success of the students in mind. I firmly believe that every student needs to be challenged, and that marching band can be an arena in which students improve their musical skills. Custom arrangements achieve that. I even write for battery and pit percussion!
I offer arrangements and compositions for marching band, but I also write for concert bands, small ensembles...any grouping of musicians you want to highlight on your concerts.
I am a convert from Finale to Dorico 6, and I use VDL for percussion.
Collaborative Approach
I value collaboration and work closely with band directors and artistic directors throughout the entire process, ensuring your vision is realized.
I do not enjoy writing in a bubble acting as a musical contractor, if you will. While that may be my role, I prefer to work with the director or appointed staff creative team to bring the overall vision to life. Everyone is more happy that way, and the students get the show they can truly be excited and proud to perform.
