Thank you for your interest in the Wildcat Marching Band Leadership Team. Your application will consist of three parts, listed below. Your application will be judged based on the quality of your responses, demonstration of your ability, and prior knowledge of your leadership and character. Please keep in mind that all decisions are made to reflect the best interest of the band, and that all members have the potential to be strong leaders. 

 

  • Please provide a resume. List past musical experience, leadership positions, and any honors, awards, or distinctions that you have received.

    On a separate sheet of paper, please answer the following questions to the best of your ability. Be thorough!

    • What do you feel is the most important aspect of leadership, and how do you demonstrate this quality?

    • What is the role of leadership in marching band?

    • Think back on your experiences in the band. What would you improve, and what steps would you take to implement said improvements?

    • If you were not selected for a leadership position, how would you continue to serve the band and create a positive impact?

  • Please complete a service project for the band. This can take many forms, but should demonstrate your willingness to improve the program, facilities, or overall experience of members.

    Additionally, please interview an individual in a position of leadership. Ask them about their views on the role of leadership, what led them to become a leader, and how they have made a positive impact on their community. Record their responses, and attach them on a separate sheet of paper.

  • Each applicant will sign up for a one-on-one interview and audition with Mr. Graf during the spring semester. Each interview will be between 5 and 10 minutes, depending on the number of applicants. Treat this as a formal interview, and put your best foot forward.

    The practical application will consist of a 30-second excerpt demonstrating your ability on your chosen instrument (or choreography, for color guard). You will also be asked to demonstrate:

    • Forward marching

    • Backward marching

    • Set position

    • Commands (forward, backward, halt, set, parade rest)

  • All drum major candidates are required to sign up for an additional interview. You will also be asked to demonstrate your conducting abilities in the following ways:

    • 4/4, 3/4, and 2/4 conducting patterns

    • Marcato, tenuto, and staccato styles

    Counting off the following pieces:

    • Fight Song

    • Star Spangled Banner

    • Bad Romance