They are drum majors. In Black marching bands, drum majors usually serve two purposes: 1. As conductors; and 2. "dance" performers. I was a music major at an HBCU (Historical Black College and University), so I hung out with marching band folks all of the time and watched many of their practices and performances. When the band is marching, they usually march at the head of the band, helping to keep time with their unique march style. When the band is standing in place at the performing ground, they will either help the band director with conducting OR they will perform choreography themselves along to the music. It's a HARD job and comes with a lot of responsibility. As a drum major, you're basically an orchestral conductor AND a dancer rolled into one!
Just look at it
Please, could someone tell me the names of the guys 3:00 standing between the dancers and the band? What function do they perform?
They are drum majors
They are drum majors. In Black marching bands, drum majors usually serve two purposes: 1. As conductors; and 2. "dance" performers. I was a music major at an HBCU (Historical Black College and University), so I hung out with marching band folks all of the time and watched many of their practices and performances. When the band is marching, they usually march at the head of the band, helping to keep time with their unique march style. When the band is standing in place at the performing ground, they will either help the band director with conducting OR they will perform choreography themselves along to the music. It's a HARD job and comes with a lot of responsibility. As a drum major, you're basically an orchestral conductor AND a dancer rolled into one!
😂