PATRICK DUNCKER
Patrick Duncker is a junior studying oboe performance from Champaign, Illinois. Last year, he was a member of the tenor saxophone section.
“I am beyond excited and incredibly humbled to have the opportunity to serve as one of the drum majors for the Marching Illini for band 154! The Marching Illini has been the most welcoming, inspiring, and fun community that I’ve had the privilege of being a part of during my time at Illinois, and I am eager to help contribute to our organization’s culture of positivity, inclusivity, excellence!”
MATTHEW FELBEIN
Matthew Felbein is a freshman studying music education from Naperville, IL. Last year, he was a member of the mellophone section. He is honored to have the opportunity to serve as drum major for this upcoming season!
“I have been so inspired by past drum majors of the Marching Illini and I’m so proud of how this organization is a driving force of music, life, and positive change on campus and in the community outside. I look forward to supporting the efforts of the DEIA community to make sure that everyone feels welcome in the Marching Illini and that everyone’s unique identities are uplifted and celebrated! I firmly believe that any leadership role is an opportunity to serve everyone in the organization, and I look forward to working with every member of MI and dedicating myself to that kind of service. I am so thankful for all of the support I received from so many amazing people throughout this process, and I’m looking forward to an amazing season! Go Illini!”
POORNA KUMAR
Poorna Kumar is a freshman majoring in Community Health and Trombone Performance, and apart from band, she also studies South Indian classical violin!
“I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity to serve as a drum major and pay it forward to the band the same way my drum majors did for me. The warm, inviting nature of the drum majors before me is something I strive to continue so I can help make MI feel like home for someone else! I think serving in this capacity is such a cool experience because of how connected the role is with the rest of the band and the music-making process, and I am so excited to work with my MI family and display our musicianship and showmanship this season!”