Drum Major

From Culverpedia

Rank: Drum Major
Paygrade: 04
Shoulder Brass: One Diamond
Reports Directly to: 2nd Battalion Commander
Works Closely with: Band Counselors, Assistant Drum Major, Unit Commander, Music Instructors
Description:

The Drum Major rank is exclusive to the Naval Band and carries the same insignia and authority as Unit Commander. Although the Unit Commander leads the band in all general daily formations (without instruments), the Drum Major leads the band in parade formation, and directs the musical pieces. The Drum Major carries a long, black and silver decorated staff (called a mace) and utilizes it both to relay commands to the band in parade formation as well as conduct the music.

Although most Drum Majors play the drums, this is not a requirement. Drum Majors are selected their third class year, through a tryout procedure in which all interested third class bandsmen demonstrate their proficiency in marching, directing, and commanding the band in formation. The third classman selected from this tryout is announced at the final band concert, and he assumes the rank of Assistant Drum Major the following summer, then proceeds to Drum Major as a first classman. As the bandsman selected as Drum Major is generally a very proficient leader, he is also eligible for non-unit positions as a first classman -- in this case, the Assistant Drum Major, a second classman, leads the band in parades when the Drum Major is marching with Batallion or Regimental staff.

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