Drum Major Lawrence Laws

Name: Lawrence Laws

Instruments: Tuba (4 years), piano, guitar

Past positions: 2004-’05 Brass Captain, 1st Chair Tuba

Preparation for being drum major: Intensive 96-hour training camp at James Madison University

The full story: In addition to playing the tuba in band, Lawrence has taken piano and guitar lessons. He's taking AP Music Theory in school, and is aiming to audition for All-State Band this year. He plans on continuing to play the tuba in college, and to also minor in Music.



At school, Lawrence is in the top 25 of his class, a member of National Honor Society, and actively participates in the demanding Model U.N. club. As a reward for his academic achievements, he was offered to spend two weeks in Japan this summer. He also participates in the Theatre department’s productions, beginning as the Padre in last spring’s musical “The Man of La Mancha.”



Conducting and leading the band is the main part of a drum major’s job, and at competitions Lawrence is judged for his style and technique. In marching band even drum majors need to have a routine, and along with everyone else, Lawrence has to memorize all of the band’s five performance songs. He has to know how to visually indicate dynamics, impact moments, tempo changes, and how to cue important parts in the music. Before and after practice, Lawrence works one-on-one with Mr. Luley on his routine and discusses the band’s progress.



In his free time, Lawrence makes a habit out of hanging out with the close friends he’s made in school, as well as traveling with his family to Turkey every two summers. At home he speaks Turkish fluently as he plays with his little cousin Derman. Come see Lawrence lead the band at home football games and marching band competitions!



Quote: “Being drum major is not only about waving your arms in the air during performances. It’s about keeping the band focused on one goal, and that is to work as a team. You have to be able to help the band in any way possible.”