Drum Major Training

The Drum Major Society offers a training and tryout program through the Director of Bands that is designed to assist both seasoned and inexperienced Drum Major candidates with understanding basic style, technique, and pattern construction as it is utilized at the University of Cincinnati.

The program has a MINIMUM set of requirements that each candidate must achieve in order to be considered eligible for the position:

• Attend one (1) informational session.
• Participate in at least one DMS sponsored Workout Session.
• Complete a conducting exercise at the annual Spring Football Game.
• Participate in the Spring Drum Major Tryouts.
• An essay qualification form is required by the Director of Bands for all candidates and will be administered at some point during the Training process.

Both current and alumni Drum Majors will assist the Director of Bands in hosting a series of workshops supplying potential candidates with the information they need to hold the position. Sessions may include the following:

• Basic UC Conducting Technique
• Advanced UC Conducting Technique
• Score Analysis and Composition
• Pregame Mechanics
• Etc.

In addition to the substantial resources offered above, each candidate will receive UC's Drum Major Handbook and will utilize it throughout the training/tryout process.

While there are a MINIMUM set of requirements all candidates are highly encouraged to participate in as many group workshops and private sessions as their schedules permit. Arrangements are made through the DMS chair and assigned personnel based on mutual schedule availability.

Drum Major Responsibilities

The Drum Major is the direct agent of the band director and is the highest-ranking student in the organization. Multiple Drum Majors are in turn ranked by the director. The primary responsibility is to conduct designated rehearsals and performances. The Drum Major relays any information regarding rehearsals, performances, and schedule to the band. The Drum Major is the primary student representative of the band. Information from the band should be directed towards the Drum Major and they in turn will relay it to the Director of Bands. The Drum Major is also the principle contact for the director. The director informs the Drum Major of any information necessary and they in turn contact officers, section leaders, etc.

Drum Major Qualifications

• A minimum of 1 year as a regular marching member of the Bearcat Marching Band
• Prior experience as a drum major or field commander is preferred
• A working knowledge of correct conducting and teaching techniques and methods, including score reading
• An understanding of the physical and mental demands of the brass, woodwinds, percussion, and auxiliary sections
• Superior marching technique and style
• Ability to read and teach drill charts and marching style
• Willing to be present at every Bearcat Band function
• Superior leadership skills including a pleasant manner and conduct
• Superior physical and mental capabilities and appearance