Drum Major

Samuel Pérez III is in his second year as a graduate student at USC and is serving as the drum major in his fourth year with the Spirit of Troy. After earning a Bachelor’s of Science in Mechanical Engineering from CSULB, he is currently pursuing a Masters in Music Teaching and Learning from the Thornton School of Music in hopes to further his skills as a music educator. Sam was previously the Assistant Director of Bands at Long Beach Polytechnic High School teaching the Poly Marching Unit and the Concert Band, as well as overseeing the program’s Winter Color Guard. His marching program was a 2x CSBC Finalist and his concert ensembles have earned Superior ratings at SCSBOA Band Festivals. Sam is is also currently a brass instructor for Pacific Crest Drum and Bugle Corps.

Additionally, as an avid trumpet player, Sam is a member of the Lakers Band, the Thornton Concert Jazz Orchestra, and has had the opportunity to gig and records on jazz albums in the Los Angeles area. Prior to joining the Trojan Marching Band, Sam spent three summers performing with Pacific Crest Drum and Bugle Corps, serving as a three time lead trumpet soloist, trumpet section leader, and horn sergeant in 2021. He went on to age-out with The Concord Blue Devils Drum and Bugle Corps, helping them earn their 20th World Championship and was named the Brass Rookie of the Year.

Sam is looking forward to serving the Trojan Family as this year’s drum major and is excited for all of the amazing opportunities USC provides! He has wanted nothing more then to be a Trojan and grew up around the TMB so choosing to be a part of the Spirit of Troy was the easiest decision of his life. His favorite TMB memories include beating the bRuins, traveling to Chicago, and being able to share the field with his Dad on Homecoming!

Fun Fact: He was invited to eat Thanksgiving Dinner at USC QB Legend Mark Sanchez’s house!

Any questions? Feel free to email me at usctmbdm@gmail.com and follow the official drum major account on X (formerly Twitter) @USCDrumMajor!