A Drum Major's Prayer:
May I always be ready to take the field
To conduct myself smoothly and keep my eyes pealed.
To forget sweaty palms and a fast beating heart
And to wait and salute for the music to start.
Let me always remember when phrases repeat
To conduct to the music, and not just the beat.
Let me cue with authority, passion and pride
To remember beat patterns when I subdivide.
May I never give in to my nerves or self-doubt
And to always remember what music's about.
Let me never be hesitant taking a chance
And to make opportunities partners of dance.
Let me never be scared to be someone who cares
And to give of myself more than anyone dares.
Let me always remember I'm leading the band
I'm the person who risks, the one who takes the stand.
And should I lose my focus and make a mistake
Let me quickly recover and learn in its wake.
Should I ever forget that it's not about me
And lose sight of the fact that teamwork starts with 'we'
Let me change for the better, no matter the strife
Because I am the drum major, now and for life
Amen.