2021-2022 drum major: ryan frist

For auditioning, because of COVID this year was slightly different. Normally, all auditioning would be done in person but for most aspects the audition was in a video, even the flip that each applicant must be able to do to fill the role of the Drum Major.

For Frist this was no struggle, since in high school he had the position in mind and had been able to do stunts in preparation for the audition.

“From day one of rookie year, I told Dr. Drane I was going to be drum major”.

One of the goals Frist has for the season, is to make sure the band is back on track from where it was pre-pandemic, since half the band would not have marched in front of a crowd before a pre-game. One of the things he has missed the most about the season is the family aspect of the band and being able to meet new faces every year.

“For incoming rookies, the best advice I can give is to just give it your all during audition. Giving it your all and making sure you’re having fun and making friends, that’s really what you’re going to remember years in the future”

With the challenges of standing out above all other people in the Blue Band, taking initiative for leadership roles and not being afraid to ask questions to the staff puts forth effort to the family feel of the Blue Band. Especially auditioning for roles such as Drum Major, this shows dedication and commitment that the Blue Band can take pride for.

If the Blue Band were to be described in one word, the word chosen by Frist would not be more fitting.

“The Blue Band in one word would be tradition. We have had so many great leaders and directors come out of it, and a lot of Blue Band is keeping the traditions and holding the code for over 100 years. So, making sure that goes on untarnished is important to me”.

As this season will hopefully be more back to schedule compared with the last season, be sure to watch for Ryan Frist’s flip as Drum Major for the 2021-2022 season.