Our workshops traditionally take place in Wassenberg in the Lower Rhine region of Germany. Here you can find the most important information at a glance:
Price:
€280 per person (€252 for members of EDMF e.V.)
Included in the price:
- Tuition, including both theoretical and practical sessions in group and individual training phases
- Lunch snack and drinks during the workshop sessions
- Drum Major Dinner on Saturday evening at Burg Wassenberg restaurant
Accommodation and any additional meals or catering are not included in the workshop fee.
However, we are happy to assist participants in finding suitable accommodation in the area.
Instructor:
S DM Thomas R. Lorentzen
Police Scotland Fife Pipe Band (UK)
Thomas brings extensive experience as the Drum Major of an RSPBA Grade One band and leads the workshop.
When required, he is supported by other experienced Drum Majors from the EDMF, allowing us to provide beginners with a suitable introduction to the role of a Drum Major.
What should I bring?
- A mace, if available. If you do not have one, please let us know when registering and we will provide a loan mace where possible.
- Indoor sports shoes and comfortable clothing
- An interest in and enthusiasm for British band and military culture
- A basic understanding of German and/or English
- Previous experience in a band, although not necessarily as a Drum Major, can be helpful for your own understanding but is not a requirement.
- Uniforms / dress may be worn for the Saturday evening dinner. During the workshop itself, however, they are not required for practical reasons.
What should I not bring?
- Weapons or bladed weapons such as Sgian Dubhs, dirks or similar items
- Recording equipment. Videos for training purposes may be permitted following prior agreement with the instructor.
What does the workshop cover?
The content of each workshop is always adapted to the experience level and interests of the participants.
Topics generally include:
Theory covering the history, duties and role of the Drum Major in British and Scottish bands / Pipe Bands.
Uniforms / dress
Structure of a Pipe Band /
Preparation and positioning
of formations and
Massed Bands
Practical drill and marching
exercises, individually and in formations
with several Drum Majors
Vocal commands / mace signals
Conduct as / alongside a Senior Drum Major
Mace Flourishing & Competition Drum Majoring