drum major

American  

noun

1. the marching leader of a drum corps or a band.

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drum major British  

noun

1. the noncommissioned officer, usually of warrant officer's rank, who is appointed to command the corps of drums of a military band and who is in command of both the drums and the band when paraded together

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Etymology

Origin of drum major

First recorded in 1590–1600

Example Sentences

And to be able to serve as bandleader and drum leader, or drum major, for a group of incredible musicians is an absolute dream.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 21, 2025

Paul Antonio Johnson led a procession along the perimeter, his high knees evoking a drum major in a marching band.

From New York Times • May 2, 2024

"The viewership for this game is on a seemingly inexorable march toward more viewers, and this year Taylor Swift may be playing the role of drum major," said Daniel Ladik, chief methodologist for the poll.

From BBC • Feb. 11, 2024

Mr. Spartan is the band’s head drum major and, as Goodrich noted as he cited his responsibility for the success of the band, “enthusiasm is the key and discipline is the legacy.”

From Seattle Times • Sep. 12, 2023

Suddenly, the drum major saw the car and shook his cane-baton at me.

From "Invisible Man" by Ralph Ellison