Hi, are there any other marching band/ drum corps drum majors here?

Question

anonymous · Answer

Ehhh... Physics major lol.  However, I do compose baroque/classical and cinematic selections.

anonymous · Answer

Lol, I meant more like a field commander. Not as in college major. But that is super amazing, none the less.

sleepyhead314 · Answer

*salutes* 
I'm only a flute section leader xD
what do ya need though? :P

anonymous · Answer

Drumline Section Leader right here!

anonymous · Answer

Awesome! I'm in percussion too! Or I was until I got DM. I like flutes too, they were my second choice. =) I'm trying to think of ways to get the band closer as a family and ways to get the newbies to not be so shy and feel scared. Any suggestions???

sleepyhead314 · Answer

"closer as a family"
- spirit days (or slogans) 
     - for example our saxophone section always has "Wife beater Wednesdays"
     - another is "sun's out, guns out" so every rolls up the sleeves of their t-shirts
          - gives a sense of togetherness
- don't lead by yourself
     - give a chance for others to take lead so you don't have to do all the work
     - veterans can lead in small ways even if it's just by example
"newbies"
- always be nice to them
     - be encouraging, say what they are doing correct 
        before pointing out that they were doing something wrong
     - try to include them in conversations, make them feel like they belong
          - but don't pressure them into talking if they don't want to

as DM try to learn the name of every single person's name in the band, it makes people feel honored when you know know their names ;)
also, keep an eye out for "bad behavior" (potentially among the older members) in case they pull a "I'm older than you so I know everything there is to know about this and you should do what I say" which would not make the newbies feel good at all.

I went to a leadership meeting in Indianapolis, Indiana for Bands of America Grand Nationals a few years ago. I'll give you the notes I took from it ;P

Congrats on your Drum Major position, and good luck! :)

anonymous · Answer

Congrats! Just be fun and not to strict. The more fun you have, the more likely people will also have fun. Also do not get nervous, its easier than you think!