Category Archives: Commands

The Classic Drum Major Whistle by Rick Wilson There is a classic whistle sound that most people associate with a drum major. It is bright, crisp, and cuts through all other noises so it can be heard. It has a sound of authority. When blown loudly it projects confidence. The genuine cork ball inside gives […]

The Two Parts Of Every Command There are two parts to every command. They are: (one) the preparation and (two) the execution. The preparation tells the band what they are about to do. The execution tells them to do it. For example… “Band…Atten (preparation) Hut!” (execution)“Mark Time (preparation) Hut!” (execution)“Band…..Parade (preparation) Rest!” (execution) Both parts […]

Orders vs Commands Do you know the difference between an order and a command? The difference is this: an order is a direction to do something with an implied threat attached to it. A command is a direction to do something with no threats attached. It’s really just that simple. People do not mind being […]

The Secret Of Good Oral Commands People do not respond to your oral commands because of the pitch of your voice, or how loudly you speak to them. You do not have to sound like a general barking out commands to get your group to follow you. True, commands do have to be done clearly […]