The sun begins to set and the stadium lights flicker on. An unmistakable energy fills the air, buzzing with anticipation for game day. The Allen Eagle Escadrille’s drum majors stand tall, their eyes scanning the field as the band begins to gather, ready to march.
“This season has been an incredible opportunity to step into a leadership role and represent this band,” senior drum major Valeria Gasca said. “Being able to stand on the podium and lead such a talented group of people, it’s both nerve-wracking and exhilarating.”
The role of a drum major is more than just conducting. It is about uniting the band, setting the tone for the season and fostering a sense of community. This year, the leadership team worked to build strong connections across the band.
“I think our energy this year has gone up a lot,” Gasca said. “Our leadership team has done an amazing job creating a welcoming environment for everyone, while also setting higher standards. It’s been rewarding to see the freshmen and new members feel more involved.”
Preparation for the season began long before the first performance. Over the summer, the drum majors attended leadership camps, including the SASI Leadership camp, to sharpen their leadership skills and establish goals for the band.
“Those camps were really eye-opening,” senior drum major Joseph Park said. “We focused on how to lead effectively and how to create a cohesive, dedicated leadership team. That foundation helped us dissolve barriers between sections and create a stronger sense of unity in the band.”
However, leadership did not end with summer training. The drum majors held weekly meetings, arrived early to set up for rehearsals and kept morale high during long game days and competitions.
“Game days are especially exciting,” Gasca said. “We rehearse, get ready, and march into the stadium as one big family. There’s nothing like the adrenaline of conducting in front of a crowd and knowing you’re part of something bigger.”
For senior drum major Avery Twedt, the season has been about much more than the performances.
“Being a drum major has allowed me to connect with so many people,” Twedt said. “Before, I mostly stuck with my section, but now I’ve gotten to know students from every part of the band. It’s been an amazing experience to see how everyone comes together.”
The drum majors also represented the band in the community, attending events like the Silver Eagles breakfast and leading the band at pep rallies.
“Being the face of the band has been such an honor,” Twedt said. “It’s fun to engage with the community and show them the passion and dedication we have for what we do.”
Despite the long hours and high expectations, the drum majors agree that the experience has been incredibly rewarding.
“It’s been incredible to see how much our teamwork has improved over the season,” Park said. “We’ve grown closer as a band, and that bond has made all the difference in our performances.”
For the 2024 drum majors, the season highlighted the importance of leadership, teamwork, and music.
“There’s nothing like finishing a show and knowing it went well,” Gasca said. “To be part of this journey, to lead this band—it’s something I’ll carry with me forever.”
