Senior Head Drum Major, Carlie Wilste, finds band to be one of the best experience’s high school has offered her. Drum Major or the “leader” of the marching band, has the responsibilities of not only making the band look and sound the best they can but also being their mediator.
“If there’s a problem the students go to leadership first, they don’t go to the band director. If there’s any type of conflict it goes through me first, and if the problem can’t be resolved or is to big to handle then the director is our resort. But if its something we can handle among ourselves then the band director is our last option,” said Wilste.
Putting in hours of practice, Wilste must be acquainted with all returning members and incoming ones as well. She says that having the role of drum major, you must be comfortable enough to take charge in uncomfortable situations. Obtaining this role with a lengthy interview process, she knew from the beginning that it would take a lot of time and dedication.
“I couldn’t have gotten drum major without the help of former drum majors Sephanie, Amanda and Alex. They would be considered my mentors,” said Wilste.
Although Wilste does not plan on doing this in college, she does plan on attending the University of Florida to major in psychology, and does however find interest in participating in a club or group of people that have interest in music.
“If I can be in a practice group I will do that because keeping up with your instrument and practicing allows you to develop your skill, you don’t necessarily have to be in a program,” said Wilste.
Melody Ocasio // A&E Editor
