Loretta Trezza is one of two drum majors in Purdue University’s “All-American” Marching Band. She is majoring in Law and Society and is minoring in Forensic Science. Her hometown is Middletown, New Jersey, but lives in Charleston, South Carolina. She is currently a junior at Purdue, and recently I was fortunate enough to interview her about her experience in the band, and gain insight on her leadership experience.
HC Purdue: What role does the drum major have in the marching band? Loretta: “Drum Majors are the example for the rest of the students in the band. On game days, we conduct the band, lead them in marches around campus, and cheer on the Boilermaker football team in the stands. We are essentially an extension of our staff during rehearsals. During those, we assist with teaching drill and music. When it is time to perform, we are expected to execute flawlessly and represent our school with class.”
HC Purdue: How did you get started in band? Loretta: “When I was in high school, my two main instruments were flute and drumset. My dream was to be on a drumline, so I learned how to play tenor drums. I marched a 60 lb. set of drums for three years until I got to Purdue. My back issues led me to learn how to play snare drum, and I played that for one year in the “All-American” Marching Band before being selected as a Drum Major. Marching band was something that allowed me to forget about school for a while and focus on something completely different, and at Purdue it’s also given me a family away from home.”
HC Purdue: When and how did you audition? Loretta: “Though I audition every year for the Drum Major position, my first time auditioning for it was when I was a freshman. It was an eight-week audition process that included showmanship, physical fitness, game management and conducting portions. To be honest, I am very competitive. I was never a Drum Major in high school, so I taught myself how to do a lot for that audition. I practiced almost four hours a day every day just to be ready to compete for the spot, and I’m grateful to have been selected two years in a row.”
HC Purdue: What has been the hardest of part being drum major? Loretta: “The hardest part is when you don’t truly want to give it your best effort. I’ve had three papers, an exam and bronchitis the week of a home football game. All I wanted to do was curl into my bed and sleep, but I had a gameday to manage and a week of rehearsals to do. Those are the days when you suck it up and remember why you auditioned for that position: because you want to help the band succeed. In my personal opinion, a group can’t succeed unless the leader is giving their best effort. Though it’s difficult, I remember that I have so many people counting on me, and it helps me push through those tough days.”
HC Purdue: What is your favorite part about being drum major? Loretta: “The people. We have a ‘band family’ culture here, and our directors and students perpetuate it. I live with members of our drumline. People that have graduated have kept in touch though we’re hundreds of miles apart. Students and directors truly go out of their way to help you and support you. I’ve been so lucky to see freshmen classes grow while I’ve been in my position. I know a female trumpet player who I recruited make the band, along with her brother, and now she wants to audition to be a Drum Major as well. A student that I recruited from my high school ended up coming here and making the drumline. It is so rewarding to know that I have had an impact on people, and it’s comforting knowing that I will stay in touch with these people long after I graduate.”
HC Purdue: What advice would you give to people seeking leadership positions?
Loretta: “Never let anybody tell you that you are not good enough, including yourself. Always remember why you accepted a leadership role and give 110% to those who look up to you. Never think, “I and me,” always think of “us and we.” You are never done learning, so be open to constructive criticism.” Boiler Up! Hammer Down! Hail Purdue!