Four Drum Majors have been selected to lead the Coppell High School Band during the upcoming 2016-2017 school year:  Rishav Rout, senior trombonist, Sam Wang, senior clarinetist, Kyle Whiting, senior clarinetist, and Ashna Pathan, junior clarinetist. This is the second year on the podium for Rout and Wang (last year they were associate drum majors), and the first year on the podium for Whiting and Pathan.

All four students were chosen based on certain attributes, including exceptional musicianship and leadership, the ability to inspire others and be good team players, as well as the ability to serve the band community from the heart. “I am excited about working with the 2016-2017 drum majors over the coming weeks, as well as the rest of the student leadership team,” said Gerry Miller, Director of Bands for CISD. “Preparations for our fall marching show Now I See are already underway. It’s going to be a great year.” Gerry Miller is also new to the Coppell High School Band this year. Previously Miller was the Director of Bands for Wakeland High School in Frisco.

“I wanted to become drum major because it is the best way to serve the band,” said Rishav Rout, son of Ranjan and Nikki Rout. “Coming into my second year, I have high hopes for the band. I want everyone to give 100% right from the start.” Rout explained that while winning the state marching contest this year would be amazing, the goal should be unrelenting dedication during all rehearsals, sectionals and performances. “In no other organization are students so actively involved,” said Rout. Rout is also an Eagle Scout and member of Boy Scout Troup 807, a member of the Coppell Ultimate Frisbee team and a frequent volunteer at the Perot Museum of Nature and Science. Rout plans to study engineering after graduation.

Sam Wang, son of Richard and Caroline Wang, was inspired to become a drum major by Scott Mason, who retired earlier this year after 25 years as the CISD Director of Instrumental Music. “Mr. Mason’s complete dedication to the band motivated me to do the same,” said Wang. “Band has changed my life in such a positive way. In addition to serving the band, I want to inspire my peers through my passion and love for music.” Wang also noted that while winning the state marching title would be nice, the ultimate goal for the band is to give 110%, no matter the conditions. In his spare time, Wang enjoys playing the piano, guitar and ukulele, as well as reading manga and watching anime. After high school Wang plans on pursuing either business or computer engineering while continuing music as a hobby.

“I want to help lead the band in a positive direction during this transition year,” said Kyle Whiting, son of Sam and Susan Whiting. “Plus, I've always wanted to conduct on the podium.” Whiting added, “I want to be the best that I can be and help push others to become better than they thought they could be.” Outside of band Whiting loves to run. He is also president of the Interact Club, a community service club at school, plays varsity Ultimate Frisbee and volunteers at First United Methodist Church of Coppell through the Loving HANDS Ministry. Whiting is considering majoring in economics in college, and wants to continue playing music in an orchestra or band.

Ashna Pathan, daughter of Mohit and Zarin Pathan, has wanted to be a drum major ever since the 7th grade, when she saw her very first marching show, Coppell High School Band’s Spectrum. “The band has helped me grow a lot as a person,” said Pathan. “I want to give back to the program by working as hard as possible to help it reach its full potential." In her free time, Pathan composes music, is a member of the Coppell Chamber Music Club and helps with Town Center Elementary’s Green Team projects. In college Pathan wants to major in music composition and pursue a career in music composition and film scoring. She also has her eye on the Drum Corps International, especially the Phantom Regiment, serving as a conductor/drum major.

For more information on the award-winning Coppell High School Band and Color Guard, go to the band website at www.chsbandboosters.com.