A Dover native will lead The Ohio State University Marching Band this fall.
Clayton Callender, a 2022 graduate of Dover High School, tried out Saturday afternoon for the role of 2023 head drum major for the best damn band in the land. Following the tryout, it was announced that Callender was selected as the Buckeye’s new drum major.
“It means a lot to me because it shows that all of the hard work and dedication has paid off,” Callender told JMN. “I’m grateful for everyone who has helped me achieve this dream. It’s truly a blessing.”
To some who know Callender, they say it’s not much of a surprise for him to be selected for the prestigious position.
“He had his sights set on being the Ohio State Drum Major at an early age,” Chris Redd, Dover’s band director said. “Clayton was a talented musician throughout his time at Dover Middle School.”
Callender spent two years as a drum major for the Dover Tornadoes. Redd called him one of the most talented twirlers to go through Dover’s program.
“[He] was among the most talented mace twirlers we have ever had in our program,” Redd noted. “This achievement is the culmination of years of hard work and dedication.”
Callender is the first Dover graduate to become an Ohio State Drum Major, Redd believes. He is the 65th drum major for The Ohio State in the modern-era.