The Performing Arts department has struggled with many challenges in the COVID environment that are not very practical. Students in band and chorus are required to practice outside to prevent the spreading of virus from their mouths to other people. Moreover, due to social distancing, band and chorus students must sit six feet apart. These restrictions may cause problems because students rely on hearing other instrumentalists and the percussion section, but outside some of these sounds are drowned out. 

         Since band and orchestra students must practice outside, they must also deal with the fact that the cold can cause damage to the students’ instruments. Some brass instruments may shrink or expand in severe cold or warmth. Instruments made out of wood may crack beyond repair in the cold. In addition, the cold won’t be comfortable for the students. Eighth-grader Braedon Willis says, “Practicing in the cold is pretty uncomfortable. And the temperature affects the vibration of the instruments which means they have a better chance of being out of tune.” The band classes practice in tents, so the school will insulate them and add heaters as the weather gets colder. 

         Although annoying, Westminster’s precautions have been successful so far. “The band students have a lot of resilience and positivity through this tough time, and all of the band teachers are very proud of them,” says band director Zac Ferguson-Cogdill. As long as each member of this community does their part to stay safe and help out, we could stay in school.