Freshman Grace Sickendick has recently been appointed as the new drum major for the Knightpride Marching Band. In her position, she will be conducting and leading the band alongside head drum major, sophomore Sam Weaver.

“I was shocked at first, then excited and then a bit nervous because it is going to be a lot to take on,” Sickendick said. “It’s going to be a lot of responsibility compared to what I had this last year. Last year when I did saxophone, I was just in that group of people, but now I get to branch off and I get to visit other groups and help people learn and flourish.”

Sickendick’s role as drum major will make her one of the main leaders of the band and she will help make sure everything runs smoothly from running large ensembles or working with section leaders during their sectionals. She will answer questions and assist with the new members with their marching and playing abilities, especially with the band being made up of a lot younger marchers.

“I can’t wait to work with her,” Weaver said. “She’s a great person, a great leader and she works well.”

When looking for a drum major, band director Rob Stegeman was interested in finding a candidate who is a talented musician, can get their point across and get stuff done. Stegeman decided this year would be a great year for Sickendick to start, because it would be a lot easier for her to get into the swing of things for this upcoming season.

“As soon as I knew that we were going to get a new drum major, I immediately thought of her,” Stegeman said. “I’m looking forward to her becoming a leader. She has such a lovely personality and I can not wait to see her in a commanding position.”