Majorette

Majorette refers to a baton twirler, typically a female performer, who participates in marching bands, drum corps, or parade units. A majorette performs choreographed routines that combine baton twists, throws, catches, spins, and dance to music, often setting the visual pace for the unit.

Origins: Baton twirling began in the early 20th century in North America and Europe as marching entertainment and sport. Organized corps formed in schools and bands, with the term majorette coming to denote female baton performers. Today the activity is practiced worldwide.

Equipment and technique: The baton is a slender rod, typically metal, wood, or fiberglass, balanced for tosses and spins. Routines emphasize rhythm, timing, and group synchronization, featuring high tosses, spins, rolls, and coordinated dance elements.

Organization and competition: National associations and clubs standardize rules and safety. Competitions occur at local, regional, and national levels, with solo, duet, and group categories that combine baton work and dance. International events exist in some regions.

Cultural role: Majorette performances are common in parades, football games, and ceremonies, contributing to pageantry and visual storytelling. The term is widely used in Europe; in other regions baton twirlers may be described as batonists or twirlers, including both women and men.