Drum School

I'm the drum major of my high school marching band. I know that I was good enough to make it but I fear that I'm not good enough to be the drum major full time. I back down from my band and let them roll all over me. How do I take charge and make my band listen to me?

First, you should talk to your band director for advice. S/he is on your side with things. Maybe s/he needs to address the band, and tell them that when the director isn't there, you are in charge, period. And the director should explain what the consequences are if they don't listen.

Try talking with the section leaders, either together or separately. Maybe they can reign in their section a bit.

On the other hand, it's marching band. It's supposed to be fun. Disciplined, but fun. It can't be all drudgery all the time, or people will quit. You will be miserable, too. Feel free to have fun and laugh every now and then. Think of good, effective teachers you've had. They know how to take charge when needed, but they also know when to cut loose a bit.

When you are in the role of drum major, be the drum major. You shouldn't be drum major 24/7. Only when you're in front of the band. When you're not leading the band, don't lead the band. Just be yourself, still be the teenager you are. Be sure to be nice to everyone, though. Don't gossip, and don't put people down. :-)

2007-08-08 16:50:07 by The infamous Hollster

Performed by James Pang (in black), Wilson Teo (in white), Brandon Tan (in red) during an Intermediate 1 group lesson at My Drum School. Tempo ...

Ive been playing drums for around 6 1/2 years, and have finally decided to join my schools band. Im a freshmen, and will be auditioning for the drum line next year, what should i do to get ready?

Practice your diddles and overall basic technique. look into the school's fight song, cadences (or string of cadences), and make sure you have at least a basic concept of how to march as that will get you points early on. Tape your sticks using electrical tape so you look more professional as well. Other than that, try your best to look nonchalant. Be friendly ;)

2009-09-07 16:52:15 by Metaldrummer

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I'm planning on going to Teaching Drum outdoor school to join the 11 month immersion program. But the thing that's holding me back is the price, which is $7,200 for a year. I think that it is a little bit expensive, but I haven't been able to find any other school's like this one. If anyone has been to Teaching Drum can you give me any advice? And are there any other 6 month - year long programs like this that you know of?

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2010-01-17 19:15:07 by emilyl

I am an experienced drum set player and a sophomore in high school. The drum line at my school is looking for a new tenor player, and I was hoping to give it a shot. However, I've never played in the school band before and have no experience with that type of thing. Am I just stupid for thinking I can try out? If it is a spot that is possible for me to make, is there anything I should work on? (Reading, playing etc.)

Experienced Percussionist here!

You most definatly need to practice playing and reading notes. I would suggest looking at rudiment sites or Youtube(If must). You usually play it the same as a normal drum. You'll get the hang of it. It's not that hard and don't think you're stupid for trying out. Marching Band in your future maybe?? I would suggest Xylophone for that but since your not experienced with Band I don't know. This may be weird how I think you will switch instruments from Drum Line to Marching Band but my school has you try out once for each. GOOD LUCK!!!

2010-01-22 23:43:56 by I Bleed Dodger Blue

I'm already behind since the director and two drum majors now favor one. I need any hint I can get, including basic things. I really do mean anything.
THANKS!

Your question is a bit ambiguous, so i have to assume that you are auditioning for drum major.

My experience in high school, they said it was not a popularity contest, they were right! Being drum major is not glamorous at all-it's stressfull! My h.s. director always chose the individual with leadership skills, the one who would get the most respect from students and staff. Never the best spinner,marcher, musician, conductor, etc. because without respect-the whole band/pageantry corps is dead!


My experience as a director of high school bands, I listen to my student officers,(like the graduating D.M.) they know who has a good or bad reputation, who has the strength of charachter to make the group come alive, who can handle the stress best, and who knows how to balance between being a buddy and a bully!

What i demand from a prospective D.M. is;
1. be a highly skilled musician
2. live the example all the time (long before you ever wanted to be a dm)
3. be a skilled, patient comunicator
4. know what the big picture is and what your part is in that picture.
5. be able to conduct and spin a mace well.
6. be passionate about our groups success
7. maturity
8. learn to read a score
9. know marching techniques/how to read drill charts & be able to teach those skills.
10. Have the respect of the rank & file members of the band and pageantry corps.
11. be humble, not egotistical!
anybody lacking one of those 11 qualities will not do well in the role of DM.

2008-05-14 13:46:34 by Josh D