The Conductor ’ s Hat
Gary McIntosh
One of the fun things about watching high school and college football games is the halftime band performance . Bands march in lockstep across the football field playing their school ’ s fight song . The sound of the drums and horns energizes the fans , but it ’ s the intricate formations that delight them . Sections of the bands separate to the beat of the music , forming complex patterns , interweaving within each other , and crisscrossing through lines of performers .
Sophisticated maneuvers and dance moves cause audiences to clap with joy , but they don ’ t happen by chance . In front of the band is a conductor who has selected the band members , chosen the music , designed the various maneuvers , and led them in practice . Occasionally , a field conductor or drum major marches along with the band in a visible position , but at other times , it ’ s difficult to see the conductor . Having someone wear the conductor ’ s hat , though , is crucial to the successful completion of the band ’ s production . Without a conductor , it ’ s unlikely that any band ’ s
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