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A Look into the Routine of a Drum Major

  • Student Submission
A Look into the Routine of a Drum Major

*This story was written by one of our Wylie ISD students, Wylie High School junior Ryley Collins. We are proud to highlight her voice and story-telling skills!

Ryley Collins conducting That Wylie Band

Photo by Zion Tesfaye

Wylie Band’s marching season is quite the feat. The program operates like a well-oiled machine; with every moving piece interlocking exactly into its designated space.

There are many reasons for the band’s success: talented musicians, hard-working staff, and constant rehearsals to name a few, but some student musicians manage to exceed expectations with their dedication.

Drum majors (or majorettes) are band students who have been selected to lead different sections of the marching band, and they essentially operate as an extension of the band directors.

One of the drum majors here at WHS, senior Zig Dickey, describes his job as “a lot of behind-the-scenes work.”

The job requires steadfast commitment and dedication to the program, especially because of the chaotic nature of marching season. From band camp in July to the end of the season in November, band becomes the top priority for these students.

“Obviously we conduct, but we also set up for rehearsals along with the logistics officers, lead the warm-up during daily drill, lead football games, and then, of course, we lead the halftime show,” Dickey said.

When it comes to day-to-day responsibilities, the drum majors are required to arrive at school an hour before rehearsal starts to have a morning meeting with lead band director Todd Dixon.

Dickey describes the daily meeting as “a look into the rehearsal plan for the day and any upcoming events like football games or competitions.”

After that, it’s morning rehearsal, where the majors help conduct and instruct the band.

“We rotate who does the daily drill each day,” Dickey said.

In general, though, a drum major’s responsibilities change depending on what the band needs.

On competition days they’re all over the place helping different sections, and during halftime shows, they’re right up front directing the band to success.

“We fill in any sort of responsibilities that the [band directors] need us to,” said Dickey.

It’s a tough job, but if you’re truly passionate about music and band, then it can be extremely rewarding. It’s also a highly respected and coveted position. Here in Wylie, there’s been an excellent lineage of drum majors, and it’s clear and those currently in the position hope to continue it.

  • WHS