Marching Band Assistant

Job Title: Marching Band Visual & Percussion Instructor

Employee Class: Seasonal-Athletics

Department: Athletics – Marching Band

FLSA Status: Hourly

Reports To: Marching Band Director 

Effective: 

PRIMARY PURPOSE: The Marching Band Visual & Percussion Instructor is a key member of the marching band instructional team, supporting both visual execution and percussion instruction. This position plays a vital role in the development of the drumline and overall field performance, working closely with the Marching Band Director, student leadership, and band members to ensure an exceptional performance and educational experience. Responsibilities include teaching and refining marching and playing techniques, mentoring student leaders, leading sectionals and rehearsals, and supporting performance logistics.

1. Instruction and Teaching:
   • Teach and refine marching techniques including posture, stride, alignment, and visual precision.
   • Instruct the drumline in playing technique, marching technique, and performance readiness.
   • Provide individualized feedback to students to improve musical and visual performance.
   • Conduct field rehearsals, sectionals, and full ensemble rehearsals for both visual and percussion execution.
   • Attend rehearsals and performances for quality control and fine-tuning.
2. Drill & Visual Implementation:
   • Assist with teaching and cleaning field drill, including accurate placement and movement of performers.
   • Utilize technology (e.g., drone footage, Pyware, rehearsal software) to enhance visual performance.
   • Lead on-field warm-ups and coordinate pre-show routines.
3. Leadership Development:
   • Mentor student leaders, including drum majors and section leaders, to enhance their instructional and leadership capabilities.
   • Facilitate workshops to build leadership, instructional skills, and team culture.
4. Coordination and Logistics:
   • Assist in planning and execution of band camp, rehearsals, and performances.
   • Ensure appropriate use of field equipment including field markers, metronomes, and sound systems.
   • Support organization and transportation of equipment for performances and travel.
5. Student Support & Program Promotion
   • Monitor academic, social, and personal development of band members.
   • Help with student recruitment and evaluation.
   • Assist in building relationships with alumni, donors, and the community to promote the band program.
6. Collaboration and Communication:
   • Work closely with the Director of Bands to align field activities with the program’s artistic and educational goals.
   • Maintain clear and consistent communication with student leadership and staff regarding rehearsal schedules, expectations, and adjustments.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in Music, Music Education, or a related field required. Significant experience in the marching arts may suffice. Master’s degree a plus.

EXPERIENCE:

• Previous experience in teaching marching techniques and drill design/implementation at the high school or collegiate level required.
• Experience in drumline instruction, visual design, or drill implementation strongly preferred.
• Familiarity with marching band drill design software (Pyware) and field technology.
• Experience as a performer or staff member in a collegiate marching band or drum corps.
• Proven success in mentoring student leaders and fostering a positive band culture.

CERTIFICATION: N/A

PHYSICAL SKILLS AND ABILITIES: Ability to demonstrate marching and playing techniques, including prolonged standing and movement on the field. Capacity to lift and transport field equipment as needed.

WORKING CONDITIONS: Work is performed indoors and outdoors with potential for outdoor exposure to high temperatures, and safety and health hazards related to band instruction. Evening and weekend work is required during marching season. Outdoor rehearsals in varying weather conditions. Travel for performances and recruiting events as necessary.