Drum Major Lessons - Southeast U.S.

[Ken Hosey, Panama City FL P&D]

Does anyone know of a DM instructor or workshops offered in the Southeast U.S.? I wear full #1 dress with bonnet and piper's plaid, so intricate flourishing is out of the question. But I would like to learn some basic and simple flourishes just to add a little pizazz to a parade. I live in Panama City, Florida and the summer is our slow season for piping & drumming. If Jason, Kevin, Mickie, or any other good flourisher would like to trade a weekend of instruction for a free stay near the beach, please let me know.
Cheers,
Ken

[Pipin' Paramedic]

My recollection is that D/M Jim Thompson, who with Kevin MacHeffner made the "By the Center" instructional tape, hails from Dunwoody, GA. Maybe you can track him down.....

Skip

[Ken Hosey, Panama City FL P&D]

Thanks Skip,
I'm friends with Jim Thompson of the Atlanta Pipe Band and have learned a lot from Jim concerning Dress, Drill, and Deportment, and also how to run massed bands. If you ever get a chance to attend the Stone Mountain Highland Games in October, you will witness how a true professional coriographs 50 to 60 bands in 4 waves on a relatively tight field. However, Jim doesn't flourish. I would specifically like to learn some simple flourishes to use on parade in Number 1 kit.
Thanks,
Ken

[Kris Gordon]

Ken, I don't know what he is doing now, but Mike Zipay (not sure if I spelled the name right) used to be the DM of the McGuire's band in Pensacola when I played there years ago. Mike always wore #1 dress (or close to it) and was very good at flourishing. His background was from the Marine Corps Drum and Bugle Corps. I haven't spoken with or seen him in about ten years, so again I don't know what your luck will be. Last I remember he was living in Milton, FL. I believe that Sam Varney is currently the Pipe Major of McGuire's Pipe Band. Good luck.

Kris