Drum Majors Attend UGA Camp

In preparation for the upcoming marching band season, Jasper County High School senior Anna Parker and junior Austin Peek attended the Summer Marching Band Camp at the University of Georgia last week.

Ms. Parker and Mr. Peek spent their time training under the leadership of Amber Weldon-Stephens, Laura Moates Stanley, and Eric Willoughby, as well as the current drum majors of the Redcoat Marching Band.

More than 100 high school students began their week going over the fundamentals of marching and spent time learning how to conduct songs with various time signatures, give cues, and make cut-offs. They also had leadership classes in which they worked on team-building exercises and learned many useful tips from their instructors.

The students visited Sanford Stadium and sat in the bleacher seats where the Redcoats perform during home football games. Getting a small slice of college campus life, the music camp students stayed in Russell Hall and dined on campus at the Oglethorpe and Bolton House dining rooms.

Despite the heat, Ms. Parker and Mr. Peek had a great time developing their directing skills and making friends. The drum major campers, along with students who attended the color guard and percussion camps, completed their week with a performance on Legion Field for family and friends.

The Marching Hurricanes are under the leadership of Chris Savage who is assisted by Ray Buck and Kim Savage, and the band’s show for the upcoming season is titled “Genie.” Ms. Parker will serve as drum major, and Mr. Peek will serve as assistant drum major.