Up high on the podiums co-conducting the DHS marching band are three seniors – Alivia Turner, Kela Schnelle and Talia Ransom. 

When all three students were juniors, they applied for the position of leadership and shared what they brought to the table during a three-day clinic held during homeroom. 

“The requirements for being a drum major were that we had to learn a section of the show and conduct it,” Schnelle said. “Then we had to learn the commands for the band and do them in front of the other kids auditioning.”

Keeping organized, dealing with confrontation, taking care of equipment and leading the band to success are all expectations. Conducting during the show is only one job of many they do each practice and game. 

“We also critique marching style, teach sets and choreography for students that missed practice that day, communicate with other group leaders’ decisions about the group and set a good example on why the little things we do are important for the future,” Ransom said. 

There are some special moments among all the difficulties.

“Getting compliments from the band and directors is the best feeling I can get because then I know that I am doing my job correctly,” Turner said.

They plan to step out of old traditions, make new modern techniques and create a more positive environment. 

“Something that the other drum majors and I have talked about is ‘bringing the hype,’” Turner said. “In past years, the drum majors have kind of been more serious than funny and, of course, that doesn’t make the band hype. So we wanted to change how we interact with the band by being super involved and having a great time 100% of the time.”

Ransom added: “The band has taken a lot of criticism from people not considering us a sport, people saying what we do is easy, that anyone can do it. I’m glad over the years we pushed through the hate and are still able to make a positive season for ourselves.”

Competition starts is Saturday, and the drum majors have goals.

The goals are simple.

“Place higher in our competitions than we did last year, as well as have at least a small relationship with everyone on the band,” Schnelle said. 

Turner added: “My goals for the band season is that we place top five at KBA, one ratings all season, developing a bigger and better sound and making the leadership better,” Turner said. 

Ransom is excited for the members to reveal their improvement.

“It shows our progress from when we first learned the movement until now, all complete and cleaned,” she said.

There’s an added part that is special – all three are black females.

“It’s just really nice to be able to be … a part of Derby’s first ever all-black female drum major staff,” Turner said. “We want to make a difference and make history this year.”