SL on a power trip!!!

[tubagirl]

Okay, so my SL is a junior, and she's uuuuber controlling. She constantly says she pulled all the weight last year, even though I know for a fact she didn't. She always acts like she's high and mighty, like what she says should go, and she constantly corrects other people - even older people who aren't even in our section. There's two other sophomores in the band and one of them is really, really annoying. Like, when BD is talking, he'll just say something that totally contradicts the BD and it not only distracts but confuses me. So when I tell him to stop talking, my SL gets on my case about shutting up.

She doesn't lead, she complains that we don't do anything right, when actually we're a very respectful section. Save for the BC, who plays bassoon in non-marching band[for him it will be Symphonic Band]

I don't like her methods; at first it was okay, but she's getting worse and worse and she won't take any advice. I've talked to the BD but she's new and isn't sure what to do about it.

I want to try out for section leader next year, because I know I could do a hell of a lot better job - one time, she was gone, and I took over the sectional. It was a really, really awesome time and we were really productive.

Basically, I'm asking for advice - should I stick it out for another month, because Marching band is over on Nov. 7, about a week after FOB. Should I talk to someone about it and stir up dust or just let things lie?

[altosax4life]

I would say since there's just a month left, to just stick it out. You could get your section to vote her out. But I would advise against it. I say just make section leader next year.

[bariclaribob]

Easier said than done. At our school at least, we're stuck on seniority being the only factor in choosing sls. Usually, that's fine, because generally, the oldest member is the most responsible and the best player. When they aren't responsible (ie control freaks), then it's hard to improve. I would suggest that you stick out the season with this section leader. I don't know how you pick sls... is it elected? By ability, application, seniority? Try out for it next year, but till then, just hang in there and do your best. Try to lead by example. Your section will notice.

[tubagirl]

Well, you have to apply for section leader at the end of each year. Then I think it goes by whoever the director feels is best suited. My SL was actually only SL by default. Our original SL moved at the end of last year, the only other senior didn't want it, so it went to the newbie bari sax. She's a junior but she isn't too awesome of a bari sax player.

[Duel of the Flutes]

I would say to just stick it out. If you want to be section leader next year, trying to cause some trouble with the current section leader (even if it is for a worthy cause) might send a message you really don't want to send. I know it's easier said than done, but that might be the best way to earn the respect of the people in your section. Figure out just exactly what you can do to help your section that she won't have a problem with. Granted, from what I hear, probably the only thing you can outwardly do is... nothing. So, do nothing. Just do your best while playing & marching. Be a model section member first, then worry about being a section leader. Because if you're setting the best example, you really are the section leader, even if someone else is the one with the title.

[trumellotonium]

One of the most important things I would note is that you certainly do not need a title to be a leader. Try to be as amiable (nice) as possible with your section leader and follow what she tells you as best you can while also setting the best example of everything you do. Also keep in mind she may not know any better way of "leading," so don't hold it too hard against her.

As the people above have said, the better your work with her now, the more respect you're likely to gain as SL next year.

[tubagirl]

Thanks to those who replied. And, for the record - I DID get section leader this year. I'm super excited.