What does a drum major do?

Asked by: Wendy Marshall

The drum major is the leader of the marching band during rehearsals and in performance. His/her job is to carry- out the instructions of the band director and other instructional staff regarding what needs to be done with the band. Drum Majors are selected for one school year.

Why do they call it drum major?

The “Drum Major” was the non-commissioned officer commanding a regiment’s drum corps, “Major” in this instance being a shortening of “Sergeant Major.” The earliest instance of the term “drum major” found in print so far dates back to 1598, but, if one believes Wikipedia, the position was not formally established until

Is it hard to be a drum major?

Being a drum major is hard; not only do you have to worry about your music, but you have to worry about the music of all of the sections. It also doesn’t mean you get to be some dicta- tor; you have to help your band. You are there to serve the section leaders and the people in your band, not to rule over them.

What rank is a drum major?

Drum majors generally have the rank of a senior NCO.

What is the most important part of being a drum major?

Leadership qualities are often the main determining factor in being selected for drum major and it makes a big difference if you can exhibit strong leadership potential from day one. These are some of the most important ways you can demonstrate leadership potential in your band program.

Is being drum major worth it?

Being a drum major is no small feat – especially if you’re new to the role. At times, you might feel overwhelmed by the responsibility the job involves. However, it’s important that you don’t get discouraged. Being a drum major is incredibly rewarding – and definitely worth the added responsibility.

Does drum major look good for college?

Drum Major is a huge responsibility, and colleges know that. You’ll show leadership on and off the field and will often be the first person that younger students will come to with questions or concerns, since you are acting as a liaison between the band conductor and the students.

Do drum majors play drums?

Traditionally, a military drum major was responsible for: Defending the drummers and bandsmen (The drums and bugles were communication devices)

Why do drum majors bend backwards?

According to Cloutier, the first drum major to pull off the trick was so flexible he hardly had to bend his knees. “The way I heard it, he could just bend backwards at the waist and touch his head to the ground,” Cloutier said. “That’s what started the whole tradition.”

Why would I be a good drum major?

A good Drum Major is supportive



Show support for others before they show support for you. We’ll score points with our bands (in fact, with anyone) when we make the effort to take care of them, to listen to them, to thank them for their work, to treat them kindly, without their having asked for such.

How does a drum major cut off?

This first cutoff is on one it looks like this. 1 2 3 4 1 so you're going to double 3 and close your hands on one we'll see it again one two three four one and then you'll continue your pattern.

How do you try out for a drum major?

About being a drum major is that conducting is the most important. Part if you do a youtube search right now for how to be drum major most of the videos that you're going to find are going to be about