Why Is Drum Major Important

Drum Majors

Drum majors are a vital part of any band, whether it is a middle school or high school band or a band like “The President’s Own.” Being a drum major comes with many essential responsibilities. Throughout history, drum majors have impacted the way bands have been run, they have changed how many people look at the drum majors of today, and they have many responsibilities.

Drum majors have a vital role in their bands, which we see supported by history. According to “History of the Drum Majors,” “In July 1861, President Abraham Lincoln signed an Act of Congress to reorganize the Marine Band, which created the positions of Leader, Drum Major, and 30 musicians.” The President recognized the importance of an organized and responsible

“The role of the drum major originated in the British Army in 1650 with the Corps of Drums, and it was later adopted by the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War” (Wren). These drum majors were in charge of leading and training the drum line and leading performances and drills. Which has been carried on throughout time since this role was created. Even though the purposes and circumstances differ, the job still exists to benefit the band. Many of the traditions remain the as they were when the position was first created.

A drum major has many roles and responsibilities they have to fill. Communication skills are vital to performing the job successfully. Whether it is verbal communication or physical, it has to be clear and concise. Drum majors communicate through words, verbal commands, a variety of whistle blows, mace movements, and conducting. You have to be able to communicate your passion through the way you are leading as well.

Knowing all of the whistles is important because it is one of two forms of giving the band the instructions for the next step. Whether you are about to march forward, mark time, or halt the band, you use a different whistle for each. The whistles vary in length and pattern, with each movement getting a unique

When verbal commands are given, sometimes the snare drum player will give a click to help instruct the band. For example, when the drum major is calling the band to attention, the full command would be Band: (click) Attention. Working with the drum line is very important to keeping the band on time and being clear with the intentions behind every movement.

While working with the drum line, the band also has audible responses they give to the drum major. Most movements have more than one step or part to them, so usually the band will count out loud to keep track of the movements. These responses are done within the tempo that the drum major sets when they give their command. After the band responds, they are expected to stand still and await further instructions.

Also, conducting is another skill that is required to be a drum major. There are many different time signatures that all have their own pattern that goes along with it. Knowing how to conduct all of these are important because you never know what time signature a piece the band will be playing