The De Soto High School marching band has seen much success over recent years. Many would attribute strong leadership to this success.

Recently, it was announced who would take over the leadership positions of drum major for the 2014 season.

There was a noticeable change this year, as four students were chosen as drum majors. Typically, there are only three selected.

The four new drum majors are juniors Meredith Wolfe, Erick Sherman, and Kate Barger, along with sophomore Jaycie Thaemert. Barger is returning from last year’s group.

Even though it doesn’t start for months, the group as a whole is looking forward to next season.

“I’m super excited because I have a lot of ideas on how to keep the band improving. We’re already off to a good start, and I think we’re a good team to keep the band working and improving,” Barger said.

“I’m also super excited because I think we’ll work great together, and I’ve wanted to be a drum major since  freshman year, so it’s exciting that I get to do it my senior year,” Wolfe said.

The decision was announced last week after school. The group held mixed reactions to the announcement.

“I was in shock. I was pretty sure I didn’t get it, because I thought they’d keep me in the trumpet line,”  Sherman said. “When I got it I was super pumped and really happy because I’ve always wanted to be drum major.”

“At first I was angry because Kate kept it from me for two days. She knew and didn’t tell me. But then I felt happy, because I was a drum major,” Thaemert said.

The group will direct the band as it learns to perform its new show. The show will feature classic rock songs Breadfan by Metallica, Wanted Dead or Alive by Bon Jovi, Tom Sawyer by Rush and a drum feature of YYZ by Rush.

Overall, the group chosen is optimistic about the season, and ready to get to work.

“It’s going to be a great marching season, and everyone should come watch the show. I’m super excited to see what we can do,” Barger said.