Marching Band/COVID-19 Update (7/14)

Hi everyone,

I hope you are well. I would like to share some recent updates in the instrumental music education realm that bear implications on how our band & orchestra classes will look this fall. Please find these updates listed below:

Competitive Marching Band & Zero Hour

Yesterday, the two state marching band circuits we annually compete in announced the cancellation of all competitive ensemble performances for this fall. This includes AzMBA marching band competitions, ABODA marching band competitions, and ABODA fall orchestra and concert band festival. As a result, the marching band experience will look quite different this year. This ensemble will continue to instill performance concepts and fundamentals which will set us up for a strong competitive season next year. Additionally, we will prepare stands tunes, in the event that we are still able to perform for school/local events as the Copper Thunder Marching Band and/or basketball pep band this Winter. 

However, we will also spend quite a bit of time focusing on leadership and team-building, in addition to engaging in topics such as marching band history and performance appreciation, music/drill teaching and learning, marching band show design, etc. For this reason, I encourage students who are considering AP classes or other important classes needed for graduation to take those classes instead of zero hour marching band. This year presents unique circumstances so if you are affected by this and would still like to participate in marching band, please reach out to me directly so I can make sure you are in-the-know on after school rehearsals and performances. Moreover, students are still encouraged to participate in jazz and concert ensembles.

School-Based Program Fees

After closely communicating with our bookstore manager and school admin team, it is likely that the school will not charge the Activity and Class fee for band/orchestra classes upon registration. Should we return to some semblance of normal, an additional open-house will be held and a pro-rated fee will potentially be installed. Regarding the Marching and Uniform fees which are typically paid to the boosters, the booster board is finalizing their plan so an announcement, along with other booster information will be posted soon.

Preliminary Testing Report on Performing Arts Aerosol Study

A report was published yesterday of a study done on the aerosol emissions of a number of musical instruments. This report included lab results focused on understanding the “distribution of respiratory aerosols” that are released while playing wind instruments and singing. This report also included considerations for the performing wind ensemble which we will take into account once in-person instruction returns. A few of the considerations are as follows:

  • Students should sit all facing the same direction, back to front to minimize potential exposure.
  • Social distancing should continue to occur; students will maintain 6×6 distance while sitting in the band room
  • Ensembles will be set up in straight lines rather than curved arcs as curved setups can affect the aerosol movement in a room.
  • Trombones should have an additional three feet of distancing (9×6)
  • Spit valves should not be emptied onto the floor. Recommend using a puppy pad (or similar) to catch the contents and discard.
  • Limit congregating of students in storage areas; wipe down surfaces.
  • Students should ask questions/speak at a low conversational volume while wearing a mask

Thanks and as always, please feel welcome to reach out with any further questions, comments, or concerns.

Best regards,

Mr. Knox