Marching Band continues despite pandemic and lack of competitions

Emily Banner | staff writer

Jazz band rehearses with masks during the first half of the school year. Photo courtesy of Anita Kau.

During most years, summer and fall are marked with drumming and music as members of the LCHS Marching Band practice on the field. At the start of this school year, however, most in-person activities were cancelled due to the pandemic. As the year continues, people are trying to return to some semblance of normalcy.

Marching band was unable to meet in the summer and fall due to school guidelines, but as of November, groups have begun to practice again. Pit and drumline began to come into school starting on November 2, and marchers started coming in on November 9. Safety precautions are being taken to prevent coronavirus from spreading among the group.

According to drum major Anita Kau, all musicians must complete a health check form. On arrival, a faculty member takes their temperature, and they are asked to use hand sanitizer upon entry. Social distancing of six feet is enforced at all times.

Weather permitting, marchers always practice outside, using masks and instrument bags. Currently there is no competition being held to work towards, but Kau says they “have our fingers crossed for a possible spring season.”

Marching band met until winter break. However, cases rose after break, and the band put their practices on hold for the time being. “As much as we enjoyed having in-person practice, we felt that it wouldn’t be responsible of us nor would it be safe to continue practice under the current circumstances,” says Kau.