seriously, can you play trumpet? Taught a group similar when I was in college. I marched them out in the center of the field, played a song and left. A recent grad played the bass drum for them. Another time, another school - marched a parade where I played my horn and marched with them. There are ways. I remember a line from a movie: "Let it be a challenge to you." Don't take it personal. Make something work just enough to show the boss you are trying. I'm fairly sure that UIL marching waits till next year. m