World Drum Major Association, Inc.
Scholastic Circuit
Rules and Regulations
The World Drum Major Association Scholastic Circuit is dedicated to creating a friendly,
interactive and competitive atmosphere for K-12 drum majors. Participants are grouped into
divisions separated by both skill level and type of equipment. Students then engage in
competitive performances where they are eventually placed and ranked accordingly. Upon the
conclusion of the season, a performer from each division is designated as a World Drum Major
Association Champion for their particular division. The following are the rules and regulations
all participants must adhere to in order to be considered active.
Scholastic Eligibility
In order to be considered eligible, participants must be between the grades K-12 and enrolled in
any school in the United States of America.
Out of Region Participant
Since WDMA primarily operates in the State of California, participants who commit to
performing at a World Drum Major Association Scholastic Event who do not reside within the
state of California are considered an “Out of Region Participant.” This Participant is required to
follow the below perimeters:
• Participant is to contact a WDMA representative via email at info@worlddrummajor.org
• Participant will be contacted by the Director of Scholastic Competitions, and will need to be
able to submit the following:
 a copy of two(2) score sheets from events of their region
 a video of current year performance
• Upon approval the Participant will be contacted by a WDMA representative and assigned a
division & classification appropriate to the Participant’s skill level
NOTE: The Director of Scholastic Competitions does reserve the right to approve
“Out of Region” Participants who do not meet the stated criteria on a case by case
basis.
Championship Qualifications
Participants must participate in three (3) WDMA sanctioned Scholastic Events to qualify for the
WDMA Scholastic Championship.
• Participants will be placed in the division they participated in during the Scholastic Season
• If the Participant performs in two (2) classifications, Participants may only select one (1)
division per classification to perform in at the WDMA Championship Event.
NOTE: If the Participant is promoted mid-season they will be required to perform
in the newly assigned classification.
Participation Procedures:
Participation in the Scholastic Circuit requires all performers to meet the following:
Updated Jan. 2016
Release Forms
Participants must complete and submit the following forms in order to perform within the
Scholastic Circuit prior to their first event:
• Code of Conduct
• Medical Release Form
• Emergency Contact Form
• Image release Form
These forms can be found on the WDMA website, www.worlddrummajor.org
Registration
Participant must register to take part in each WDMA Scholastic Event. Registration can be
found on the WDMA Scholastic Circuit webpage: www.worlddrummajor.org/circuit.
 Entry fees for events will vary.
 Participants are required to register for a particular event not later than 5:00 p.m. (PST) on
the Sunday prior to the event.
 All Scholastic Events will be open for registration up until the deadline of 5:00 p.m. (PST) on
the Sunday prior to the event.
 Participants are highly encouraged to register as early as possible.
 Payment for entry fees can be paid online via Paypal or at the event site.
 All payments are not due until the day of event.
 Participants have up until 48 hours prior to the event to cancel without accumulating any
cancelation fee and will be issued a full refund.
 Participants who cancel under the 48 hour mark will not be eligible for a refund.
 “No Show” Participants will be granted a onetime amnesty status per season.
 If a Participant has two (2) or more “No Shows” in one season, they will not be allowed
to participate in a WDMA event without the approval of the Director of Scholastic
Competitions.
NOTE: A Participant is allowed to register for as many events as desired, but does
not have to fulfill the entry fee until the date of the actual event.
Performance Order
 The performance order for WDMA Scholastic Events will be determined by a random
draw.
 Only the Director of Scholastic Competitions is allowed to make amendments to the
outcome of the random draw. The reasons in which amendments are permitted are:
 Previous requests by participants that have been received at least two (2) weeks
prior to the event and have been approved by the Director of Scholastic
Competitions
 Scheduling conflicts between performance areas
 Insufficient rest/recovery time
 Double booking of a participant
 Upon release of the first “Line Up” of a Scholastic Event, a Participant is allowed to
request a time change up until 48 hours prior to the event. Requests will be approved or
denied by the Director of Scholastic Competitions and may carry deductions.
Updated Jan. 2016
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After the 48 hour mark prior to the event has expired, all Participants are locked into
their time slots. No amendments will be made after this deadline except for emergencies.
Uniform
• Band uniforms are the preferred type of apparel to be worn at Scholastic Events.
Participants are encouraged to wear the full apparel befitting of the ideal image of a
ceremonial leader (e.g. shako with plume, sashes, etc.).
• If a participant does not have a uniform available to them, they must contact the Director of
Scholastic Competitions to receive permission to wear a suit.
• Costumes or outfits enhancing the theme of a performance are permitted but must contain:
 Closed toe shoes
 Headgear themed to the performance
 At least two layers of upper body clothing (e.g. shirt and jacket)
• No inappropriate clothing or images are allowed. Anything deemed inappropriate by the
adjudicator will result in an immediate stop of the performance and disqualification.
• Any and all requests for alternative apparel must be submitted in writing to the Director of
Scholastic Competitions no later than two (2) weeks prior to intended date of effect.
Music
• All Participants must provide their own music.
• Music must be in the form of a MP3 loaded onto a USB flash drive.
 Flash drive must only contain the desired file to be played.
 If a participant is performing in multiple divisions in the same day, the same flash drive
may be used, but must be labeled with the intended division. This is not recommended but
permissible.
• Flash drives must have an attached identification card for logistical purposes.
• Music must be turned into the designated sound table no later than 45 minutes prior to
scheduled performance time.
• No special instructions will be taken by the sound technicians. If desired, a representative may
man the sound table to start/end music. Live announcements are permitted.
• Participants are encouraged to have a back-up method to play their music. If the music fails to
play, and the cause is deemed by the adjudicator and sound technicians to be out of the
Participant’s control, then no deduction should be earned for delay of performance. If the file
is not properly formatted, timing of the performance will not be halted. If a fix causes the
performance to be overtime, the Participant may earn a deduction at the adjudicator’s
discretion.
Divisions:
Participants are offered three divisions identifying the skill and experience level in which they
should demonstrate. The divisions are as follows:
Novice Class (A)
An entry level Drum Major displaying the basic fundamentals of flourishing, and is beginning to
explore style and technique incorporating planar work, tossed and ambidexterity while
displaying basic marching and leadership skills. Music interpretation is generally shown but not
highly essential. Typically a first year participant with no previous experience.
Open Class (AA)
Updated Jan. 2016
An intermediate level Drum Major displaying disciplined training in flourishing. Planar work is
well explored and the Drum Major is beginning develop an individuality within their routine
construction. The structure of their performance is developing showing creativity, originality,
and difficulty while displaying proficient marching and leadership ability. Musicality and
musical interpretation is incorporated throughout routines to enhance the overall performance.
Typically a second or third year participant.
World Class (AAA)
An advanced level Drum Major displaying highly unique and creative routine construction.
Their training is extensive and skill level is highly developed in all aspects of flourishing. Drum
Major shows advance Marching and Leadership technique. Routine construction methodically
integrates with flourishing and there is a high level of visual representation corresponding to the
Drum Majors music. A World Class Drum Major attempts to set new standards while staying
true to the ideals of the Drum Major heritage. Typically a third and fourth year participant.
NOTE: Participants who choose to perform in two divisions are welcome to do so,
however need to commit to one division by mid-season for Championship
qualification.
Advancement:
It is the primary goal for the organization that all WDMA participants develop a skill set in
which they may graduate to the World Class Divisions of their respective disciplines.
Self Advancement
At any time a performer may advance themselves to a higher division, but may never step into a
lower division. If entering a different discipline a performer may enter at either the same level as
their primary discipline or one division lower.
NOTE: The Open Class is always recommended in this circumstance.
External Advancement
At anytime a performer may be advanced into a higher division with the approval of the Director
of Scholastic Competitions and the Head Judge with the recommendation of at least one other
judge.
NOTE: External Advancement may go into effect immediately.
Future Season Advancement
Participants returning to WDMA who have placed third (3rd) or higher in at least five (5)
attempts will be advanced to the next highest division in the upcoming season.
Participant’s Rights:
Right to Assigned Time Slot
Time slots for WDMA events are drawn randomly on a weekly basis. Line Ups can change the
day of an event, however the Line Up posted at the sound booth will be considered the official
time slots. If ever an event is running ahead of schedule, a Participant has the right to hold until
their time slot arrives as designated by the official line up. No deductions can be occurred for
this.
Updated Jan. 2016
Appeal Process
All WDMA Participants have the right to Self Advancement. If at any time a Participant is
moved into a new division by an adjudicator, the participant has the right to appeal the decision.
Upon appeal, the Director of Scholastic Competitions and the Head Judge will convene to review
the case and make a decision to uphold or overturn the previous decision. In the time that it
takes to process the appeal, the Participant is allowed to remain in the desired division. Once the
Director of Scholastic Competitions and Head Judge reach a decision on the case, the decision
will remain as final. A participant is only entitled to ONE appeal per case.
Blue Sheet Process
Any and all grievances a Participant would like to file regarding an adjudicator will be handled
through the “Blue Sheet” process. Participants will be allowed to submit an electronic Blue Sheet
that will be delivered directly to the Director of Scholastic Competitions. Upon delivery, each
Blue Sheet will be reviewed by the Director of Scholastic Competitions and Head Judge and
appropriate action will be taken.
Adjudicator’s Rights:
Division Promotion/Demotion
Every adjudicator reserves the right to suggest a division promotion or demotion for any
Participant. Typically a meeting with the Head Judge helps determine this course of action, but
each adjudicator is empowered to make this determination on their own if they feel immediate
action is necessary.
Disqualification
Each adjudicator has the right to disqualify any Participant he/she feels has displayed
inappropriate behavior in their performance.
This may include:
 Music Choice
 Attire
 Use of Gestures
 Visible or Audible cues
The Right to Assign Deductions
All adjudicators are enabled to assign deductions to any Participant as allowed in the
“Deduction” category on the Evaluation Sheets. Interpretation of the Evaluation Sheets are left
completely up to the discretion of the adjudicator(s).
The Right to Approve “Day of” Schedule Changes
All Participants are locked into their assigned time slots 48 hours prior to the start of the event.
Any schedule changes that occur prior to the day of the event will be approved only by the
Director of Scholastic Competitions. However, any changes necessary, for emergency purposes
only, on the day of the event will be decided by the adjudicator of the particular division. Only
the adjudicator(s) of the divisions affected can approve or deny the request. Deductions may be
acquired. If ever more than one adjudicator’s division is effected, both adjudicators must agree
on how to proceed.
The Right to Delay an Event
Updated Jan. 2016
All adjudicators have the right to delay an event as they deem necessary. Reasons may include,
but are not limited to:
 Technical Malfunctions
 Inhibiting Weather
 Unscheduled Breaks
 Change of Venue
 More Time Required to Complete Previous Participant’s Evaluation Sheets
The Right to Refuse Comments
Typically after Scholastic Events, adjudicators field questions from Participants. This act is a
Courtesy and not necessary from the adjudicators. If at any time an adjudicator chooses to
bypass fielding more questions, WDMA will comply with their wishes.
NOTE: Any questions can be sent to info@worlddrummajor.org and will be sent to
the judges via e-mail. Upon receiving a reply, WDMA will then forward the reply
back to the initial Participant.
Flourishing:
Mace
Drum Majors participating in the Mace Category are utilizing equipment that is 51” or larger,
commonly referred to as a Mace or Signal. Mace Drum Majors perform utilizing their equipment
and either vocal or whistle commands while giving directional signals with their equipment
and/or arm signals. Beating of Time is stylized depending on their discipline:
American/British/Scottish, etc.
Military
Drum Majors participating in the Military Category are utilizing equipment that is between 38” 50”, commonly referred to as a Baton or Military. Military Drum Majors perform utilizing their
equipment and whistle commands while giving directional signals with their equipment. Beating
of Time is consistent across this discipline and clearly defines the precision of beat.
Beating of Time/Keeping Time
Drum Majors are to adhere to the following guidelines when performing in contest:
• Drum Majors are to beat time using a consistent pattern for fourteen (14) consecutive beats
following their step off.
• Drum Majors may keep time utilizing stylized sequences that is unique to their Flourishing
Category.
• Mace - Cane Walk
• Military - Strut
NOTE: Drum Majors performing in costume to a themed piece, must clearly define
how they are keeping time after their step off routine and continue to do so
through out their performance.
Performance Regulations:
Updated Jan. 2016
Timing of Competition
The Drum Majors performance will immediately start following the opening announcement and
the participant calling their band/corp to attention
Opening Announcement: “The next Drum Major in contest is [insert participants name] from
[insert affiliated school]. Drum Major is your band ready?” Drum Major calls “band” to
attention and the performance time begins.
The timing of competition concludes when the Drum Major gives a dismissal.
NOTE: Performance time is not to exceed 5-minutes.
NOTE: Drum Major may receive a deduction at the adjudicator’s discretion if going
over the allotted performance time.
Verbal Commands
Drum Majors are to adhere to the following when performing in contest:
• All Drum Majors are to give a verbal command responding to the opening announcement.
Responding to the opening announcement places the Drum Major in competition
• Drum Majors performing in the Mace discipline may utilize vocal commands to execute
commands throughout the flow of contest.
• Vocal Commands are to be executed while giving directional signals with their equipment
• All Drum Majors are to give a verbal command dismissing themselves from Competition
Whistle Commands
Drum Majors are to adhere to the following when performing in contest:
• Drum Majors participating in the Military discipline are to utilize whistle commands to
execute commands throughout the flow of contest
• Drum Majors participating in the Mace discipline may use whistle commands to execute
commands throughout the flow of contest
• Whistle Commands are to be executed while giving directional signals with their equipment
• The Whistle is to be removed from the Drum Majors mouth between routines
• Whistle commands need to be distinct with a different directional signal per commend.
Performance:
Definition of the L Pattern
An L Pattern is a sequence of routines that demonstrate artistic and technical skills that allow
Drum Majors to showcase their abilities in their respective disciplines. Drum Majors may
participate using music that is traditional and pays homage to the history and heritage of their
affiliated school; or develop a performance that incorporates the disciplines of a Drum Major
and a creatively themed story.
Performance Flow
The L Pattern is broken up into nine (9) segments that require the Drum Major to execute basic
disciplines as if they are leading their group.
L-Pattern Segment Sequence:
Updated Jan. 2016
Attention
Drum Majors will call their group to attention using the “Attn Hut” command. This command is
commonly used to get the attention of their performers to prepare them for competition.
Opening Routine
Similar to a routine that is performed during parade season, it is a routine that gives an opening
snap shot of the abilities of the Drum Major. This routine ends with the Drum Majors
equipment in the “pike” position.
Step-Off/Roll Off
Following the opening routine, the Drum Major will execute a step off/roll off. This routine is a
sequence of skills that show case the Drum Major’s ability. This Routine ends with the Drum
Major preparing to Beat Time.
Left Turn, Counter March, &Right Turn
These three segments of the L Pattern commence in the above order; The Drum Major will
demonstrate a routine for each segment showcasing their skill and ability and at the end
executing the respective turn. There is no guideline on how the Drum Major must turn, however,
the Drum Major must give a command using a vocal or whistle command following the above
guidelines.
Salute
Similar to a routine during a parade season, the Drum Major will pay respect to the National
Ensign. This routine traditionally showcases the best of the Drum Major’s skill and ability and
ends in the salute position of their respective discipline.
Halt
This routine wraps up the performance. The Drum Major will either utilize vocal or whistle
commands following the above guidelines to halt their performance. This command prepares
the Drum Major for the conclusion of their performance.
Dismissal
Drum Major will utilize a “Dismissed” command to conclude their performance time.
Scoring Rubric:
Flourishing
The following Execution standards are befitting to the techniques of a military band drum
major:
 Maintains body control
 Maintains equipment control
 Maintains speed consistency
 Proper angles and unambiguous planes
 Clear use of free hands/arms
Routine Construction standards consists of:
Updated Jan. 2016
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Clarity in varietal combinations by utilizing flourishing basics, tricks, transitions,
and free hands/arms
Showcasing artistic creativity with thematic and/or engaging combinations
A measureable level of difficulty in detail, risk, variety, body & equipment challenges,
and audience predicament
Depth of equipment skills
Appropriately applies flourishing and signal techniques in each corresponding parts
of competition: i.e.: Step--‐off, Counter March, Salute, etc.
Marching & Leadership
Leadership standards of a drum major is expected to:
 Demonstrate total leadership and directional control of the band
 Uphold a professional demeanor throughout the performance under any
environmental circumstances
 Have complete control and proper use of all equipment: baton, mace, whistle,
and uniform
Commands are executed with:
 Accurate timing
 Clear visibility
 Clear, powerful audibility through the use of vocals and/or whistle
 Consistent execution of style
Marching technique standards consists of:
 Clear and consistent parade marching technique appropriate to style
 Understanding subdivision checkpoints with controlled, smooth movement
 Staying in step and in phase
 Marking time with distinct knee--‐lifts or toes planted with heel--‐lifts
 Consistent and proper stride lengths
 Proper posture & bearing of a military band
Beating of Time:
 Is synchronized with music utilizing proper technique of equipment, body, and free
hand/arm
Demonstrates accurate: ictus, phase, angle, pitch, and commencement of beats
General Effect
The drum major’s appearance is expected to:
 Demonstrate confidence and professionalism throughout the performance
 Demonstrate good posture, facial expression, and bearing befitting of a drum
major
The presentation of the uniform must:
 Be of the principal representative of the band
 Be in immaculate condition (i.e. free of scuffs, stains, lint, damages, and
wrinkles)
 Fit properly (i.e. not too loose, long, short, baggy, or tight; with all buttons,
Updated Jan. 2016

hooks, and clasps fastened)
Match consistently in style
The performance effect is illustrated by:
 Routine with music integration to display visual musicality (visualization of
music)
 Embodying impact, style, design, and theme
 Excellence in demonstration
 Communicating artistic and aesthetic qualities effectively.
The uniform, commands, drill, and flourishing equipment must be stylistically
consistent.
Equipment and all accessories are presentable for public appearance and must be in safe
working order
Conducting:
Field Conducting:
Baton optional; Emphasis on field style and music selection.
Concert Conducting: Baton needed; Emphasis on concert style conducting and music.
Uniform
All Participants will receive a standing inspection from the adjudicator(s) prior to their
performance. Standing inspections can only be done during the Participant’s scheduled
performance time. All participants must adhere to the uniform standards stated in the WDMA
rulebook.
Participants in field conducting are permitted to make thematic choices to the uniform (such as
opting for a costume, or accessories added to any band uniform) and do not require approval
prior to any field conducting performances. Any and all attire will be subject to the same
standards as a band uniform.
NOTE: Thematic changes to the attire are only permitted for the field conducting
divisions. Any uniforms/costumes deemed inappropriate or offensive by a WDMA
adjudicator(s) in that division could result in a disqualification or request for a
change of attire. Participant can receive a deduction for a delay of competition if
requested to change attire. This is solely at the discretion of the adjudicator.
Timing Regulations
Timing of performances begins from the ending of the sound table’s announcements of the
Participant to the last beat of music performed by the participant. Timing regulations vary by
division, but are the same across both Field and Concert divisions.
Novice Class: Within 2-3:00 minutes max. without any added time.
Open Class:
Within 2-4:00 minutes max. without any added time.
World Class: Within 3-5:00 minutes max. without any added time.
Performance Area
Updated Jan. 2016
Both field and concert performances will have a podium in the designated performance area.
Participants are not required to use the podium and may utilize the surrounding area for their
performance. WDMA encourages Participants to be creative. However, any choices made by a
Participant are subject to adjudication and will be graded in the appropriate caption.
Performance Flow
Entering Performance Area
Participant should be confident with good poise and carriage, or have committed to any
characterization included that furthers the theme of the performance.
Starting Procedure
Participant will be asked from the WDMA announcer if their band is ready. Participant should
scan the ensemble. Field Conducting Participants must call their group to attention using clear
and articulate verbal commands. All Participants should indicate to the adjudicator and sound
technicians their ensemble’s readiness to begin timing of their performance. For Field
Conductors, using a standing salute is customary, but not required for this indication. Concert
Conductors should not utilize a salute -- a forward-facing bow is customary for this indication,
but not required. As time is already running, Participants will bring their hands up in ready
position to signal the sound technician to begin your music. For Field Conductors, this is
typically done with a verbal command. However, this may not suit all performances and the
Participant should take this into consideration. Music will not start until a clear and concise
indication is given to the sound technician.
Performance
Participant will perform their piece for the adjudicator(s) and audience and include particular
attention to the caption criteria that includes the following:
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Communication Integration: This section evaluates the Participant’s ability to
communicate with their band about performance needs/control of quality using
appropriate gestures and facial expressions. These include Body Integration, Style and
Adjustment of motions, Dynamics Control, Preparatory Gestures, Profile
Communication and Performance Presence.
Tempo and Pattern: This caption evaluates the Participant’s ability to provide a pattern
that is clear, visible and distinct to the band to control the tempo and time signatures of
the music. This includes: Pattern Clarity, Pattern Accuracy, Stylistic Appropriateness for
Musical Selections, Ictus Clarity, Beat Placement, Tempo Accuracy and Dexterity.
General Effect: This caption evaluates the Participant’s inclusion of design, energy and
overall showmanship for the performance. This includes: Enhancing Motions,
Performance Ambience, Performance Construction, Integrated Energy and Thematic
Design.
Ending Procedure
Participant should include an appropriate ‘horns down’ at the end of performance. Typically,
this is a motion done in conjunction with the concluding beats of a performance.
 Participant should dismiss the band using the appropriate vocal commands that are clear
and concise.
 Participant may execute a standing salute at the end of the performance. This is
customary, but not a requirement.
 Participant should exit the performance area in a professional manner in conjunction
with their performance.
Updated Jan. 2016

Most participants choose to salute their fellow competitors after exiting the performance
area. While it is recommended, this act is customary and will not be judged.
Scoring Rubric:
Communication Integration
The conductor displays thorough knowledge of the score/music through effective, clear, and
confident visual musical leadership of the ensemble.
Important musical events are effectively communicated to the ensemble and lead by the
conductor through the use of clear, unambiguous gestures: Cues Giving visual attention to
musically thematic material Visually informing the ensemble what is musically important at the
time)
Phrase and form of the piece being performed is displayed clearly through conducting gesture:
 Macro conducting
 Thematic recall of gesture/pattern as appropriate
All conducting gestures are clearly executed in a style appropriate to the music
 Pattern size relative to character, dynamic, and tempo of the music
 Character of pattern rebound
 Use of proper articulation gestures
Entrance and release gestures executed in a style consistent with the music.
The conductor confidently leads the ensemble through tempo transitions in the music and
clearly establishes the new tempo. From the moment conductor steps onto the podium, all body
language and verbal communication from the conductor inspires confidence in the ensemble.
Tempo and Pattern
The conductor utilizes a conducting pattern that:
 From the conductor’s position atop the podium is highly visible to the band
 Is unambiguous in displaying the meter of the music (i.e. the direction of each beat must
clearly show the band what conducting pattern the drum major is utilizing
 The rebound off of each ictus never interferes with the pattern clarity)
 Accurately and consistently displays the ictus in time relative to the beat in the music.
The conductor effectively utilizes a preparatory gesture for:
 Entrances
 Releases
 Cues
 Tempo changes (for most tempos, the preparatory gesture happens 1 beat before the
entrance, release, cue, or start of a tempo change takes place). The conductor is able to
effectively utilize variations in pattern without sacrificing clarity in order to effectively
conduct in the appropriate style relative to the music
General Effect
Updated Jan. 2016
The conductor exhibits and maintains:
 A confident overall appearance, posture, and demeanor throughout the performance.
 The conductor’s commands, drill, and gestures are unified with the theme of the
performance while never sacrificing visual effectiveness in musical leadership and
conducting technique.
Updated Jan. 2016