The Pride of Connecticut is a dynamic environment, often changing and spontaneous, differing greatly from many other working situations. In order to accomplish the many ambitious goals of the band it is necessary to utilize each member’s talents to the maximum. Roles in the band are not always "cut and dried;" rehearsals require many people at various levels to act both independently and cooperatively at the same time to achieve the best results.

As the largest student organization on the University of Connecticut campus, the Pride of Connecticut offers countless opportunities for its student members to step up to become leaders. Even without putting on a red shirt and becoming a Section Leader, there are hundreds of jobs to be filled and duties to be carried out. Student leadership in the UConn Marching Band is also incredibly rewarding, and accomplishments may open doors in related employment. Student leaders all take pride in working behind the scenes, or on the main stage, to make sure the UCMB runs smoothly.

Learn more about the 2008 Pride of Connecticut Band Council.

The Drum Majors function as the musical and motivational student leaders of the Pride of Connecticut. They become known by thousands as the leaders of the largest and most visible musical organization on campus. UCMB Drum Majors conduct the band during performances and rehearsals, and act as field coordinators during rehearsal. In addition, they help correct individual errors and style problems, review fundamentals with the band prior to each practice, and are responsible for assisting in hosting guest bands. Drum Majors, as well as Band Captains, are members of the Band Staff and attend meetings with the directors regularly.

Band members may audition for the role of Drum Major at the end of the UCMB season as outgoing Drum Majors retire from their positions. Current Drum Majors hold special workshops to provide training for those who would like guidance in preparation for the Drum Major auditions. Auditions are held at the end of the season, voted on by the entire band, and appointed by the Directors. The position of Drum Major, while typically a senior or junior, is open to any UCMB member who has marched as a playing member of the band for at least one year.

Learn more about the 2007 Pride of Connecticut Drum Majors.

Contact the 2007 Pride of Connecticut Drum Majors.

The UCMB's Band Captain positions are equal in importance to that of Drum Major. The Band Captains are the instructors and coordinators of the Section Leaders. These two positions are responsible for consistency and cohesion of instruction of band members in basic skills and their continual refinement. The Band Captains are involved directly in the planning and implementation of all activities of the UCMB. They work with the Directors, Graduate Assistant Directors, and Drum Majors to prepare the Section Leaders for ongoing and upcoming tasks. They act as teaching members of the Section Leader team and offer assistance to all members of the band, all while marching and playing on the field. In the absence of the Drum Majors, the Band Captains will assume their duties. Band Captains share the duties of the logistical and instructional aspects of the UCMB.

Learn more about the 2007 Pride of Connecticut Band Captains.

Contact the 2007 Pride of Connecticut Band Captains.

Section Leaders are in charge of the musical and marching performance of each section, and also manage the section's operations and communications on a daily basis. Each offseason, Section Leaders work with the Recruiting chair to accelerate the recruitment of new members to their section. The responsibilities of the Section Leaders are great and vital to the UCMB’s level of excellence, as they guide their section through the learning process. Section Leaders are the leaders of their section both on and off the field. The positions are available to all members of the marching band, and selection requires an interview with the Band Directors.  The Directors choose the Section Leaders based on consultation with the Drum Majors and Band Captains.

Sectional rehearsals are to be scheduled by the Section Leaders to develop:

1. Good full tone and sound production
2. Good intonation
3. Accuracy of rhythm
4. Proper interpretation of all musical markings and articulations
5. Improvement of marching skills and drill performance

Learn more about the 2007 Pride of Connecticut Section Leaders.