COLUMBUS, Ohio — In many ways, Austin Bowman has been training for this role since he was an eighth-grade student.

What You Need To Know

  • Austin Bowman is the 64th drum major for The Ohio State University

  • In addition to other responsibilities, the drum major hypes the band up before a performance.

  • He looks forward to the band's tradition known as three knocks.

Leading the Ohio State University marching band is a competitive honor that takes strength, flexibility and character; and Bowman is thrilled to be the 64th drum major in the band’s history.

Besides the complex routines, the heart-stopping baton throws and the intense back bends, Ohio State’s drum major hypes the band up behind-the-scenes in the minutes before they head down the ramp.

“If I’m being honest, three knocks is one of the things I look forward to most. It’s one of my favorite parts of game day,” Bowman said.

It’s a ritual going back several decades, and it’s part theatre, part tradition and all heart. And it does its job.

“The whole band just goes crazy,” he said.

A metal plate from the original Ohio Stadium sits in a place of honor in the dark corridors under the bleachers. Just before game time, Bowman performs the “Three Knocks,” starting off with a backbend and a gentle tap on the plate, ending in a loud bang that energizes the entire band just before they take to the field.

“When I’m old, I’ll look back at my time as drum major as one of the greatest experiences of my life,” Bowman said. “I’m definitely super honored to be in the position that I am.” 

It’s rare for someone to be at the top of their field at such a young age, and it’s not something Austin Bowman takes for granted.​