My comment was in reference to the group routine I have seen Arcadia drum majors do at some of their drum major competitions. They have not done this at all of them but some of the more recent ones.
As for the call for a more educational experience, I am intrigued on how this would be accomplished. I agree Winter guard has flourished tremendously and I am happy to see it. However, the drum majoring activity in California is much different than it is anywhere else in the country. Color guard however, is a national activity. Yes, most bands have drum majors, but their responsibilities vary. Many drum majors across the nation never spin a baton, and if they do, it is not at the same competitive level as some of their counterparts in California. This is not to say that there are not fabulously talented spinners throughout the nation!
As for comparing the solo competitions of Tom Peacock to the RSPBA Scottish games, I do not think all of the information has been brought forward. Anyone that has ever competed in the Scottish games knows how much more precedence is put on marching. Because of the vast array of marching styles in California, we allow all marching and spinning styles. These are two completely different types of competitions, and a fair comparison can not be made.
Our solo circuit openly welcomes new ideas. The show division is a wonderful place for some of these ideas to be attempted. Difficulty can only take a drum major so far. The drum major needs to present a complete package, appearance, execution, difficulty, routine construction, and presentation. Difficulty that is not well incorporated or executed will not end in as much credit given to the competitor.
Again, if anyone has any ideas, on how we can update and improve upon our competitions we would be glad to listen. I know that all of the judges on our circuit care greatly for the activity, and want nothing more than to see it flourish. If you have any questions you can leave them here, or contact me at
drummajorcomps@gmail.com
DMJUDGE