tips for drum majors

[andrewband07]

hay do any of you guys have any suggestions for us new guys on the podium in 06

[trumpetman1288]

All I can say is that all eyes are now on you...just stay in time with the center snare's feet, make sure you are always right, don't listen to the pit, and just give it your all. More pressure will be on you this year than in the past, but from what I hear, being drum major is actually worth it in the end.

[TRtrumpet]

Also (I know you probably wont do this but our old DM did this) DONT turn into a dictator or start bossing people around. Of course, correct them when there wrong and stuff but at the same time respect them and they will respect you. Ours Turned into a dictator and no could stand her... trust me you dont want to be like that. Also always set a good example.

[Danpod]

Be the most exciting, energetic person out there. Not only will you win respect amongst the directors, band parents, and your fellow band mates, but your actions will set up a legacy that will be followed and talked about long after you graduate. Trust me.

[MartinHorn]

  Danpod said:

Be the most exciting, energetic person out there. Not only will you win respect amongst the directors, band parents, and your fellow band mates, but your actions will set up a legacy that will be followed and talked about long after you graduate. Trust me.

Listen to this man, he speaks the truth.

[davidpowell]

Your job is not only to conduct well, but also to lead well. It takes both to be a good Drum Major.

 

Conducting, sure takes practice.

 

But a lot of people have false perceptions about leadership. If you've never heard of it, the best thing I've learned is that a leader is actually a servant, thus the name of the ideology, servant leadership. I could elaborate if you like, but right now, I'm too tired.

 

And have fun! Like Dan said.

[American920]

Lead by example. Period.

 

This is my first (and only) year as drum major, and so far setting the best example all the time has really helped.

 

Also, DON'T LISTEN TO THE PIT. Maybe your pit can keep it together, but we're currently having a hard time (I feel like I need earplugs).

[SaxoAK]

a lot of this is gonna be a feeling in the dark thing to get the hang of things. it'll be a bit weird depending on how far away the band is from you during sets and stuff but you'll have to get used to the acoustical delay, which throws you off at first, but you have to keep your tempo, otherwise everyone will phase and tear all over the place. also, videotape yourself conducting to a metronome, then watch it with the audio off to see if you would be able to follow the beat if you were in the band, and catch any inconsistencies in tempo.

[mattthetrumpeter]

Everyone has said wonderful things and I completely agree with everyone.

 

That being said, I would like to add that you have to be the epitome of the perfect band student. You are a student extension of your director. NEVER undermine a decision or action of your band director. Not in front of your band, not in front of a select group of friends, NEVER. If you disagree with something your director has done, bring it up with him in private, just the two of you. Nothing can be more destructive to your rehearsal or your band's preception of your director than a drum major who is on a different page than the director, because your attitude helps to determine the band's attitude.

 

Think about it, when the director is in a bad mood during rehearsal, are you or the rest of the band in a good mood? No. 95% of the time, the band's attitude reflects his. This also applies to you.

 

If you have any more questions, I would suggest purchasing a copy of The Dynamic Drum Major. This the text used as supplemental material for the George N. Parks Drum Major Academy. (George Parks is considered the expert on drum majoring around the country.) This book will answer any questions you will have concerning the position and any situation that comes with it.

 

I hope my comments have been helpful and best of luck in the future!

[dm07]

yeah like everyone else said being up there is sooooh much fun! just remember eyes are always on you and your always being watched. Never let your gaurd down and just always have fun and be the most positive you can be! do what you need to do and get the job done!Just remember its all worth it in the end! Hope you have a great year! any tips for me its my first and last year i think ive done a super thriller job and ill leave a legacy like danpod said.

[Mculbert07]

I'm not a drum major, but just from watching people...

Don't change your conducting technique every 2 weeks.