Expressive Conducting Episode One: Initial Thoughts and Actions

Drum majors Claire Wilcox (Phantom Regiment), Kolyn Wentzell (Bluecoats), and Lydia Marshall (Crossmen) give you three perspectives on expressive conducting and communication. If you like this video, you can watch the FULL series and so much more by becoming a patron of us or subscribing to stream at / silentcommand or visit our website and sign up for lessons at silentcommand.org

[@drumcorpsdrummer2141]

I liked this conversation. It's clear to me, many corps and most marching bands spend little time on training their conductors. As far as marching bands are concerned, I immediately expect less from those bands whose drum major(s) have any sort of ridiculous salute. I know. It's high school. They're young and no doubt it's the first thing they dream of coming up with but they look silly. And don't get me started on those who come out and have like a 5-6 count salute and then immediately run to their starting positions. God I hate that. Band directors should want to establish a presence of maturity beginning with how the group enters the field, how the pit is set up, how organized they look while setting up, etc. Act like you've been there before instead of appearing like you're performing for just your parents. DM's should simply start their show on the podium and leave it at that. While we're on the podium, (for drum corps and band) quit trying to do the military style of an "about face." Nobody can do one correctly anymore. I see nothing wrong with casually turning around, saluting normally, removing the cover (if they have one) and smiling before turning back to conduct. I prefer the DM takes one step, pivots on the toes of both feet, brings the feet together again, then saluting. Claire is better than any drum corps conductor I've seen in the last 50 years. So graceful yet completely in command. Due to her podium location in 2021, it was easier to notice her facial expressions and as a member of the audience, I could tell you felt the music. A smile when pleased, chin down on those low notes, and raised eyebrows as if to say "hey... there you go" when a spot in the music may not have hit all day during rehearsal but then suddenly... it's there. Thanks again for the memories. You are now a part of a long line of Phine Phantom conductors.

[@connertolman8024]

If anyone sees this, can they elaborate on what they talk about around 38:10 or so about memorized expression? Like I feel something like a cue would need to be memorized, especially in highschools where consistency can help.
Thanks! 😁