I remember being in competition with the corps at a show they used to hold at Teaneck HS in NJ. As the asst. DM, I was able to "park my carcass" during the drum solo. The drum line moved up to the front sidelines, while the balance of the corps "did their thing" behind them. This was an opportunity for all drum lines to shine...or get KILLED...by the two execution judges standing there, watching and listening.
For that entire season, I had marveled at the drum line. They had the ability to execute, without making a mistake, not only for entire songs, but for several minutes at a time. This night was no exception.
After listening to the drum line "cook" through another solo, I just shook my head, from side to side in my usual amazement. As I looked up, I saw one of the drumming execution judges looking at his sheet, which was BLANK. He too was shaking his head from side to side. The drum line had just finished the second drum solo, thier usual matter-of-fact look on thier faces. The crowd stood and applauded. I knew then that our drum line was going to DESTROY the competition that night....and they did....and for many nights and years to follow....
George Petrunchio: Former asst. DM Current Visual Technician (Marching Instructor)
