Over the course of this year, all of us had to adapt and reorient our lives based on societal changes. If we simply forget our mask, we are denied entry from restaurants, supermarkets, school buildings, and even churches. As well, many of us aren’t allowed to attend our extracurriculars if we aren’t wearing a mask. So, what is to be expected when those activities couldn’t possibly work with a mask—like marching band or choir? What is done then?
The answer is quite simple: we continue to adapt. We set new policies and safety measures so that students can continue doing the things they love. The marching band, for instance, has been holding socially distanced practices in-and-outside of the school. While marching on the field, masks are kept on until the students play their instruments. Similarly, during choir rehearsals, students stand well beyond six feet away and continue to wear a mask. This ensures the safety of the students and teachers, all while promoting the musical atmosphere North Augusta High School students know and love. In orchestra, the students are also all appropriately socially distanced. North Augusta High School has been able to create an atmosphere where every student feels safe, has fun, and makes music they enjoy. These students are very fortunate, as other schools have had to temporarily cancel musical arts.
Photo Credit: Matthew Price
Mr. Leysath with a group of students
Pictured: Mr. Leysath, Joel Dominguez, Joshua Ibarra, Grayson Kendrick, Jonathon Repenski, Charles Logan Jackson, Alex Bucal
As difficult as this year is for students, they will never stop fighting to do what they love, regardless of circumstances. The marching band has lost multiple days of practice, including their almost necessary band camp; they also aren’t competing in most of their usual competitions. In choir, the students have continued to pursue their goals of learning increasingly challenging music, despite meeting less frequently. The orchestra is working very diligently to produce music by hosting after-school rehearsals. No setback has been too great. Each musical arts program continues to put together its best show, whether that is a half time show, concert, or competition.
Our students are an inspiration. Regardless of the obstacles faced, they have made the best of this year, and have rose to the challenge. However, the students of North Augusta can’t take all the credit; they have incredible directors who have been working alongside them. Together they have made sure that, even with the circumstances, sharing their love of music is their priority. Thank you, Mr. Deen, Ms. Newcomb, and Mr. Leysath for everything you do for North Augusta High School’s musical arts programs.
Photo credit: Matthew Price
Mr. Leysath assisting a student
Pictured from left to right: Mr. Leysath and Joel Dominguez
Opmerkingen