Leadership Positions

Cornhusker Marching Band student leadership positions are filled through an application/nomination and interview process. Prospective drum majors will also participate in an audition involving conducting, marching and teaching. See the information below for position descriptions. All candidates must complete the on-line application form.

ALL prospective student leaders will be evaluated with the following attributes in mind.

  • Competence (musical, visual and as a teacher)
  • Understanding of and ability to assume responsibility
  • Punctuality and organization
  • Ability to handle pressure and stress
  • Ability to accept criticism and learn from mistakes
  • Communication skills and ability to be a team player
  • Problem solving and conflict resolution skills
  • Personal attributes: maturity, selflessness, affability, empathy, creativity, dedication, dependability, etc.

Drum Major

  • Principal student leadership position for the Cornhusker Marching Band
  • Works closely with the Directors on all aspects of performance and operation
  • Coordinates and oversees activities of the Section and Rank Leaders
  • Responsible for conducting show music during halftime performances
  • Serves as a motivational force to the members of the band
  • Sets the ultimate example of performance, citizenship and professionalism on and off the field
  • One year of prior leadership experience is desired

Instrumental Section Leader

  • Principal student leadership position for each section
  • Works closely with Drum Majors and the Directors primarily on instruction and performance of their section
  • Responsible for conducting sectional rehearsals
  • Coordinates and oversees activities of the section's Rank Leaders
  • Conducts uniform inspections for performances and reports to the Directors
  • Serves as a motivational force for the members of their section
  • Sets the highest standard of performance, citizenship, and professionalism on and off the field

Instrumental Rank Leader

  • Associate student leadership position for each section.
  • Works closely with Section Leader, Drum Majors and the Directors primarily on instruction and performance of their respective rank
  • Responsible for assisting the Section Leader in sectional rehearsals
  • Serves as a motivational force to the members of their rank
  • Sets the highest standard of performance, citizenship, and professionalism on and off the field

Color Guard Captain

  • Principal leadership position for the Cornhusker Marching Band Color Guard
  • Works closely with the Color Guard Instructor and the Directors on all aspects of performance and operation (including equipment management)
  • Coordinates and oversees activities of the Color Guard Rank Leaders
  • Conducts costume inspections for performances and reports to the Directors
  • Serves as a motivational force to the members of the Color Guard
  • Sets the ultimate example of performance, citizenship and professionalism on and off the field

Color Guard Rank Leader

  • Associate student leadership position for Cornhusker Marching Band Color Guard
  • Works closely with Color Guard Captain, Color Guard Istructor and the Directors primarily on instruction and performance of their respective rank
  • Responible for conducting sectional rehearsals in conjunction with the Color Guard Captain and the Color Guard Instructor
  • Serves as a motivational force for the members of their rank
  • Sets the highest standard of performance, citizenship and professionalism on and off the field

Big Ten Flag Captain

  • Principal leadership position for the Cornhusker Marching Band Big Ten Flag Squad
  • Works closely with the Directors on all aspects of performance and operation (including equipment management)
  • Conducts uniform inspections for performances and reports to the Directors
  • Serves as a motivational force to the members of the Big Ten Flag Squad
  • Sets the ultimate example of performance, citizenship and professionalism on and off the field

Student Manager Position Description

Student Manager Positions are selected through an application and interview process. Student Managers are not necessarily members of the Leadership Team, but the two are not exclusive of one another.


Truck Loading Manager

  • Oversee loading of the Band's semi trailer for travel.
  • Assemble and administer a loading crew (there should be at least one member from the Front Ensemble and Color Guard.)
  • Mentor at least one member of the Loading Crew as an "apprentice" to take over the Manager position in the next season.
  • Work with Directors, Graduate Assistants and Section Leaders on issues related to truck loading.

Go to Leadership Application Information