Senior Jocelyn Clark is the drum major for the SMS Rompin’ Stompin’ Raider Band. Clark’s role is to conduct the band, but there is more to it than that. Clark talks about the responsibilities and the job of the drum major. 

NT: “What was it like conducting all by yourself?”

JC: “It was nerve racking. It is all up to me.”

NT: “What was your favorite part of the band?”

JC: “When we come together it is awesome. We make really great music.”

NT: “Lots of people look up to you being a drum major, what does that feel like?”

JC: “It definitely weighs on your conscience.”

NT: “What is it like to be in charge?”

JC: “It’s scary. You have to have a plan in mind. And even running basics can be scary!”

NT: “Were you excited when you found out you made state band last year?”

JC: “[I was] Super excited! Making district band was fun, but I had been in that before. It was nice to do something more.”

NT: “Do you have any goals relating to band for college?”

JC: “I want to be in marching band, that’s about it for now.”

NT: “I know your mom was a band teacher, did she influence you anyway to join band?”

JC: “Yeah, I basically grew up in a band room.”

NT: “Did Colson Sargent (last year’s drum major) shape you into being a better field captain/drum major?”

JC: “He really brought me out of my shell.”

NT: “Is band really time consuming?”

JC: “Yes, I had to quit volleyball because of band. But it was worth it!”

NT: “How do you feel about our show this year?

JC: “Well you’re a freshman, so you probably don’t know this, but normally we would still be working on the second song. We are already working on the third song. It’s going to be amazing.”

NT: “What is your favorite song this year?”

JC: “Journey of Man.”

NT: “Do you ever miss marching?”

JC: “Oh yes, but I like conducting too.”

NT: “What was the hardest marching skill for you?”

JC: “I take really small steps in general, so backward marching was pretty hard.”

NT: “What are you going to miss most about the band?”

JC: “The family we have.”

NT: “Do you like conducting alongside junior Claire Kelley (field captain)?”

JC: “She is so sweet and really helpful. I couldn’t have asked for a better partner.”