Ah, the joys of newbies...I'm a drum major, actually, and some of the first marching we ever did with our freshmen was at 180, because that's the slowest tempo in our show aside from the ballad...

It was hilarious. Even though we start marching in grade 7, these kids acted like they had NO idea what was going on...

Oh, man.

Good times...

very interesting story. i don't like how the bad girl's name is Andrea though, cause that's my name :-P

but other than that, it's a really good story.

Wow. I remember being taught the whole 'tube of toothpste thing'.Makes me proud to be a band geek.

Well written. The development of Cali as a leader was strong. The only grammar mistake I picked up--I make them all the time--was "Why did I decide to be drum major, then."

And one quick comment...speaking of marching band I haven't signed up to be a member yet, although my band directory is eagerly recruiting members. Although referring to freshman messing up, I can relate to that. As a freshman I messed up my fair share in the regular concert band.