Having the ability to lead a group of 170 multitasking musicians does not come easy. It is a multidisciplinary skill that takes years to nurture. For senior Brianna DeFalco, becoming a Fightin’ Bear Band drum major was a journey full of self-discipline, resilience and confidence.
Throughout her time in band at Brewer High School, DeFalco has been inspired by the leaders around her who always set the example and encourage their peers to be the best musicians they could be.
“I don’t think I would be able to be where I am without Brianna. She is one of the most smart, understanding and supportive individuals I have ever worked with,” said senior brass captain Richard Sanders. “She is such an inspiration and a lot I do is based on what she thinks is best. She is also one of the only people in band who can scare me. If there is one person I don’t want to be angry at me, it is Brianna.”
When they are on the ladder, all eyes are on the drum majors. While they need to direct and instruct the band, they also have to demonstrate strong character.
“Kenedy Coyle, a drum major my freshman year, inspired me to become a leader,” DeFalco said. “She was always so positive and fun and everyone respected her. I looked up to her in so many ways”
For drum major tryouts, the candidates have to memorize the conducting patterns for the marching show, call out instructions, and present their salutes for their directors to judge. If the candidates advance to the second phase, they will be interviewed to give reasons as to why they deserve the position.
“The most important part is setting the example and showing servant leadership,” DeFalco said. “As drum majors, we need always to be doing the right thing because students look up to us and we need to show them how to act.”
Despite her talent and strong leadership, it would be impossible to lead a program as large as the Brewer High School FBB by herself. She conducts on the field with three other junior drum majors.
“As drum majors, we always lend a hand to each other, never leave anyone behind and we always check in with each other,” DeFalco said. “We are there for each other no matter what. We support each other in every way and I couldn’t be more grateful to have them as part of the team.”
“The tryout process was very long and a lot of work,” DeFalco said. “It was very scary. Even when I received the title, I knew the hard work was only beginning.”
To someone new to marching band, the job of a drum major might look very easy. It might seem that all they do is wave their arms to the music and count off the band. But in reality, the technique and practice that goes into skills like conducting is very demanding.
DeFalco wishes to inspire a new generation of drum majors and leaders. She hopes that students will learn from her performances and presentation of character and be the model for the future of the program.
“When looking for a drum major, the directors look for someone willing to help others and help the band,” DeFalco said. “They want someone positive and never afraid to speak up for what's right.”
Brianna conducting during halftime at a home game Photo credits: Libbie Peacock
While this is DeFalco’s last marching season, she still has a lot of room to grow now that she is one of the most vital members of the band. But it goes without question that her dedication to the program will inspire younger members to achieve high levels of success just as she does.
“Brianna cares about the band a lot and actually listens to us,” sophomore Ocsa Sukarsa said. “She is a super strong leader who treats everyone with respect and compassion. She’s one of the people that makes band worth it.”
“The first time I conducted in front of the band I felt very anxious. Despite all of my preparation, I didn't feel prepared, because you can never be prepared enough,” DeFalco said. “But the more I conducted, I improved. I just take deep breaths and remember that it is ok to mess up as long as I build off of the mistakes and do better the next rep.”
Even with her new title, this isn’t DeFalco’s first leadership role. She was a co-section leader in her junior year for the low brass section. This role taught her how to set the example and to have patience.
Brianna with fellow homecoming court member, Emily Boyle Photo credits: Noah Finch