Aly Richards ’22, Staff writer 

The marching band is proudly continuing its season despite the restrictions of the pandemic.  

Dr. Christopher Heffner, associate professor of music and director of bands at LVC, explained how the changes affected the season and expressed his initial doubt about having a season at all.  

“There were times that I didn’t know how we were going to put it together,” Heffner said. “Everybody’s approach was different, and everybody was hit with the unknown.” 

In order to have a season, Heffner met with various band directors across the country to discuss their strategies. He also met with several doctors to discuss how to keep the students safe.  

With all the uncertainty, it is difficult for many to find positive things to focus on during the pandemic. The students lost crucial practice time and many aspects of the season were going to be different from previous seasons. However, Heffner was still able to find aspects of this to be content with. 

“I think having more outdoor rehearsals is going to be beneficial,” he said. “Every day we are able to play as an ensemble my spirits are lifted more.” 

The band is taking a myriad of precautions to ensure everyone’s safety. Students must wear masks at all times unless they are playing. The drill was rewritten to keep everyone at least six feet apart at all times when marching. The band also only practices outdoors, even for music rehearsals. 

 The students, according to Heffner, have reacted to these changes well.  

“I’ve seen some smiles and the band’s playing really well the more we get into the season,” Heffner said. “I want to make it fun and meaningful.”  

The marching band practices every Tuesday and Thursday, weather permitting, from 4:30 p.m. to 5:20 p.m., and on Fridays from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.