The conclusion of marching band season has always signified the start of concert band.However, with hybrid schedules and COVID guidelines, concert bands have looked drastically different compared to previous years.
This year, rather than four bands, the concert bands will consist of five hybrid bands as well as two online bands. The Spartan Winds Band, the top upperclassmen band directed by Drew Anderson, will rehearse similarly to the Wind Symphony band from the previous year. While the composition of the ensemble will change every day, directors view this as the safest option.
The other four bands are composed of freshman and upperclassmen hybrid A and B bands. Unlike the Spartan Winds Band, these ensembles will have the chance to spend more time with the directors due to their smaller numbers. Furthermore, everyday the bands will rehearse in different rooms and the chairs will be cleaned after every rehearsal.
Nevertheless, band directors have been forced to compromise on numerous aspects of the concert band. One particular element is the difficulty of music. In previous years, the directors have found a perfect balance between all the bands in terms of skill and ability, and they have chosen music pieces that challenge the musicians.
Director Tara Dauer has voiced her concern for the Spartan Bands this year. “In previous years, our focus has been on providing challenging music for our students. But with this year, we want to place more priority on keeping students engaged with the band. Since students only come to school every other day, trying to find the most difficult pieces would only place additional stress on them,” explained Dauer.
Online band involves an entirely different, and as some students suggest ,more difficult process. Students who remain at home have to tune in to rehearsal every day and play on their own. While logistically this makes sense, the differences in feedback audio makes judging tone difficult.
In addition, online students will have different pieces that they have to play for the directors. This ensures they are still being challenged musically and remain engaged with the band. For concerts, which will be held in the gyms, online students can play with the band in person or tune in via Google Meets (?) for the show.
Senior Emad Haque acknowledged that the unprecedented experiences will be demanding, but recognizes the effort the band directors put forth to make this experience possible. “I like how the directors put in effort to make the band a good experience for everyone. I think I still am challenged because whether online or in person the expectations are the same,” claimed Haque.
Music programs around the country and at PVHS have been forced to adapt, but the pandemic has resulted in innovative ways to keep students engaged-highlighting the persistence of music.
