Each summer, band camp marks the beginning of a new marching season. Drum majors are the student leaders who conduct the band. This fall, junior Ivy Berger and seniors Allainya Gehlert and Lily Bristow were chosen as this season’s drum majors.
“[I] definitely did not see myself becoming a drum major. It was something that I thought about in junior high and then [the] beginning of high school…I did not expect to be a drum major, but I am honored by it, “ Bristow said.
For three years, Allainya Gehlert has expressed interest in being a drum major. Before attaining this role, Gelhert was a section leader for two years. Her field experience helped her to develop leadership skills and become more confident. Gehlert shared how being a senior drum major has changed her perspective.
“Being a senior has allowed me to be empathetic with people on a social aspect. I can relate to others and control how I act with people because of the scenarios I went through during those stages in life,” Gehlert said. “And being a drum major has really changed my perspective the most. [As] a drum major, you create new connections every day with your other drum majors [and] with the world. I talk to coaches and staff about business matters. Though not many people see it, we do a lot behind-the-scenes.”
For Berger, last year’s leadership camp presented opportunities to shine. Even though a few of her peers had noticed her potential, she was surprised when she received the role of drum major for the 2025 season.
“When I did get it, I kind of thought it was coming. But I was also like ‘oh my gosh’ because I play mellophone, and it’s very rare for mellos and a junior to get that position,” Berger said.
This season will be memorable for Gehlert and Bristow. As seniors, they know this will be their last year.
“It feels unreal that the time has come for me to be a senior. I honestly never thought it would happen and that life was just going to freeze and I could stay in the special moments. It still hasn’t hit me yet that I am a senior. I still feel like a junior,” Gehlert said.
While reflecting on her high school experience in band, Bristow shared some advice for younger students.
“No one walks into their first day of high school as an established figure. That’s just not how it works. And it’s okay to take a while to gather your bearings, get your feet under you. But, if you’re a part of [a] community and you stick around, those things will become more tuned to you. It’s weird at first, but it gets more normal,” Bristow said.
Berger shared the importance of reaching out for younger students who may not be involved in anything yet. To her, immersing yourself in conversation and community has value.
“Talk to people and learn what they’ve done and their experiences. And then you’ll find something you like that actually sounds like a lot of fun. You just have to put your foot in the door, honestly, just talk to people. And that’s the key to life: just talking to people,” said Berger.
Finally, Gehlert noted how kindness and empathy go a long way as you continue high school.
“You never know what somebody is going through. So be understanding and keep trying no matter what people tell you,” Gehlert said.
