Since COVID, band students have been struggling. Many changes have taken place that are affecting friendships and some students’ passion for music. Learning band virtually has been strange, to say the least. 

“We have daily assignments on this website called SmartMusic, and recently we have had a few evening rehearsals to prepare for our upcoming concert,” junior Kendall Esely said. 

Some have been feeling disheartened with the new arrangements for band.

“Having to record my audition for All-District Band was very difficult and discouraging, all of the changes just make me miss how normal and fun it all used to be,” Esely said. 

Students miss rehearsing together. Playing alone can feel a little isolating. 

“I like the weekly assignments, but one of the best parts of band is playing as a group. It isn’t as fun to only practice at home,” freshman Kaylei Stahl-Winch said. 

Connections between students are suffering and have become harder to form.

“I really really miss the in-person band. Making music with everyone and forming those relationships is something that’s nearly impossible when we can’t see each other every day,” Esely said.

Although being home and away from others has been difficult, it has also given students time to work on their own music and personal growth. 

“It has helped me get better though, I have more time to practice and think about what I need to work on as a musician,” Esely said.

It has even encouraged some to practice independently. 

“Because I’ve missed band, and because of the daily assignments, I’ve been playing more at home,” Stahl-Winch said.

The students appreciate the hard work the band teachers are putting into making virtual band a little more enjoyable. 

“Mr. Finch is honestly handling it really well, he doesn’t overwork us, but he also holds us accountable and makes us practice. It is very visible because at evening rehearsals recently, we have sounded really good as a full band,” Esely said.

The change to all virtual has not come easy to the school’s band students. However, it has not been all bad either. Many students are learning to be more independent. While there are always going to be obstacles, nothing can stand in the way of your goals.