MCRD/ERR PARRIS ISLAND, S.C. -- While many people only see the drum major of the Parris Island Marine Band during recruit graduations, military ceremonies or during parades, three seniors from Samuel W. Wolfson High School, Jacksonville, Fla., were afforded the opportunity to learn from him during a two-day crash course in what it takes to be a drum major.
Staff Sgt. Travis J. Antoine, drum major, Parris Island Marine Band, took time from his schedule to teach the students mace movements such as basic spins and pump, as well as commands such as forward march, mark time and horn movements. These commands are important for a band drum major because most of the time, vocal commands are not effective and everything must come from the mace.
"If mace signals are not precise or given at the improper time, it causes confusion within the band," said Antoine. Everyone must be together, and if the mace signals are unclear, the musicians will interpret the signal differently, which could lead to half the band doing one thing and half the band doing another."
Ernie R. Lombardi, director, Samuel W. Wolfson High School Band, and a former Marine musician, is beginning his second year at the school and is hoping to enhance their performance ability. Lombardi wanted his drum majors to learn from Antoine because he said he felt his band was lacking the discipline and structure needed to look professional and visually appealing.
"I wanted the students to get a first-hand experience in what it takes to run a band during day-to-day evolutions," said Lombardi. "I wanted them to learn Marine Corps drill; go back to the basics of 'Esprit de Corps.'"
Warrant Officer Christian E. Flores, band officer, Parris Island Marine Band, says that a strong drum major is important for many reasons.
"The drum major embodies what the Marine Corps represents. When on the march, he inspires the Marines in his charge to march straight and be proud," said Flores. "The silent commands are an extension of his will and lay the foundation of motivating performances."
After two days, the students felt the instruction from Antoine was well worth the five-hour drive from Jacksonville.
"I learned a lot, and as soon as I get home, I am going to practice much more," said Luis Costoso, associate drum major, Samuel W. Wolfson High School.
The students were using the mace for the first time and starting from scratch, said Antoine, but they picked it up quickly.
A drum major for a Marine Band does more than teach students and keep his Marines looking sharp on the field, that is just one of his responsibilities.
"The drum major is also in charge of training," said Flores. "He is the ambassador for the unit, command and the Marine Corps."
Antoine wanted to stress to the students the importance of having command and confidence while in front of their band.
"The drum major is the first one people see when a band is marching down the street. If he or she looks bad, the band looks bad," said Antoine.