All premiere military bands have need of high level drumset and concert playing. In the Field Bands case, whoever they hire will be in the concert band but also expected to sub into the jazz ambassadors as needed. Needs much more than a basic level on drum set in addition to a high level of concert playing. It’s tough to find that person, but they do exist.
The Marine Band has frequent engagements where drumset is used in a smaller ensemble capacity. The popular music ensemble “Free Country”, the Latin jazz ensemble, big band, etc. are all utilized throughout the year, in addition to regular combo jobs at the White House.
might have something to do with less and less orchestral percussionists having extensive drumset experience. someone who can do both at a really high level is harder to come by now
Are orchestral percussionists typically great drumset players? No.
Could a lot of them still function just fine in a large ensemble setting, like an orchestra or concert band? Yes.
I dunno if the Field Band often breaks out into smaller ensembles (like jazz/rock/fusion groups) when they work, but if that’s the case then they should’ve probably advertised it as a drumset audition and also ask for some “classical” skills to be demonstrated. I’m pretty sure the Marine Band (also had a no-hire for a perc+drumset job recently) does not do the small group thing.
But if they’re just looking for someone to play boom-chick on some Broadway/pop charts or whatever, then they’re probably placing too much emphasis on the drumset stuff and passing over great orchestral players who would be solid contributors in their band.
All premiere military bands have need of high level drumset and concert playing. In the Field Bands case, whoever they hire will be in the concert band but also expected to sub into the jazz ambassadors as needed. Needs much more than a basic level on drum set in addition to a high level of concert playing. It’s tough to find that person, but they do exist.
The Marine Band has frequent engagements where drumset is used in a smaller ensemble capacity. The popular music ensemble “Free Country”, the Latin jazz ensemble, big band, etc. are all utilized throughout the year, in addition to regular combo jobs at the White House.
The military bands are really liking drum set no hires these days...