Posted by Ed on April 07, 2008 at 14:58:54:
In Reply to: Drum Major selections posted by anon. on April 07, 2008 at 13:03:44:
One of my colleagues told once that a kid starts auditioning for drum major the first day they walk through the band room door. In other words, character, leadership, and dependability are just as important as conducting skills.
I have candidates conduct a piece and run some drill; I'm looking for self-confidence and mutual respect, even if technique isn't perfect. I use a rubric for commands, authority, technique, eye contact, and posture.
Then I give each of them a questionnaire asking things like: "Why do you want to be drum major?" "What is the most difficult thing a drum major has do deal with, and how would you handle it?" "Do members of the Band respect you?" "How have you contributed to our success the past three years?"
I score each answer from best to worst; someone usually comes out ahead with some thoughtful answers, and conducting can be the "tie-breaker."
Good luck.
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Ed