With the school year in full swing, many Township students are showing their school spirit by leading sports teams to victory, taking charge in club leadership roles and showing off their talents on the big stage. Football games are a major outlet for students to show their Township pride, and the marching band brings energy and liveliness to each game through their extravagant halftime performances and vivacious renditions of songs in the bleachers during the games. Leading the group are the two 2024 Township drum majors, seniors Lily Babione and Cameron Ribich.

Both of them have been involved in the marching band since their freshman year. Babione’s desire to be in the marching band started even before she reached high school, as she was inspired to join by her sister’s involvement.

“I was really little then, but I always knew it was something I wanted to do,” Babione said.

On the other hand, Cameron was inspired to join in 8th grade by band director Mr. Siegel, who encouraged his students to attend the first kick off meeting. Nevertheless, they both came to appreciate the craft, sparking a passion to improve musically and prove their leadership abilities.

“I can’t imagine not doing it anymore,” Babione said.

As drum majors, Lily and Cameron are able to use their passion to make an impact.

“It is really meaningful and it is really great to be able to watch the band grow under you,” she said. One of the most rewarding aspects is “seeing all of your help and feedback actually improve the band and the product.”

Both Lily and Cameron aspire to be future music educators and leading the marching band this year has been a pivotal step in their journey to do so.

“This is something that we are able to do where we really get the experience of what it is like to lead and be at the forefront of students’ needs but also working with staff,” said Ribich.

As for advice to any underclassmen aspiring to be a drum major in the future, Cameron attributes dedication as the main defining factor.

“It doesn’t matter the situation you are in, anyone is able to be in the spot that we are in,” Cameron said. “The whole part that makes our band the way that it is is the dedication that people put into their work”.

Lily’s success as a musician has only been possible by asking for help and feedback to improve her musical skills.

“Showing that you can do that growth, that is what makes a great leader and that is what being a drum major is all about,” Babione said.