Following on from last weeks band tips we pick up on the same topic only this time were looking at how our drum majors can improve themselves;
1. Practice regularly
Set aside a specific time to practice. I have observed that top competitive drum majors set aside a specific time to work. If you wait until you have some “free time” to practice, you may never touch your baton or mace. Create your practice time by putting it into your schedule and having the discipline to get your practicing done.
2. Plan your practice sessions
Establish a regular practice sequence. By knowing in advance what you are going to get done in that practice session you will waste less time and get more done. Some of my best performers didn’t always practice more that my other students, but they did always practice more efficiently.
3. Watch other drum majors perform
The problem with competing in band competitions is that you often don’t get to watch any other drum majors. Watching others perform is one way to learn what to do and what not to do. If there are any half-time competitions, parades or band reviews in your local area, go and enjoy the show. You’ll be amazed at how much you can learn in one afternoon.
4. Compete in solo competitions
Solo competitions are a wonderful place to gain practical experience performing. They allow novices a place to get rid of performance fears and old timers a chance to keep their skills sharp.
A word of advice. Don’t take any competition too seriously. All any competition does is give one judge’s opinion about one set of performances on a given day. No competition I have ever been to has ever measured the true test of a drum major, how well they can lead their band.
5. Enjoy what you are doing
Drum majoring is a performing art, as is music, dancing or theater. Work to get the full satisfaction out of performing. A well done performance with an applauding crowd is fun. Enjoy it.
Drum majoring is also a leadership art. Always work towards the goal of helping your band being the best it can be. If you do, you will have a very satisfying time as a drum major.
6. Act like a Leader You must remember your the leader of the band, as drum major you lead them on parades and into the arena for competitions, they follow you and so you must use your skills to set the right example and always keep a cool head even when everything is going wrong, you must guide your ship past the storm.
7. Experiment
Try new things. Experiment with your conducting or spinning skills. You will soon discover new moves and start to develop a performing style that is unique. Drum majors that have a good solid understanding of the basics and have a unique performing style are often the ones in the winners circle
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Next Thursday we`ll be looking at Snare Drum tips and techniques.
