MADISON, Wis. — For the first time since the pandemic, the University of Wisconsin-Madison band makes their way to the field for an in-person practice.
The pandemic hit pause on the UW-Madison varsity bands season.
While they were able to practice on Zoom calls, today was the first day in 15 months that they were all able to safely practice together.
According to drum major, Joshua Richlen, the band is excited to be back on the field doing what they love to do.
“Those first few notes coming out of everybody’s mouth pieces just gave me the chills,” Richlen said. “It’s been a long time coming so it’s a good day for sure.”
As they join together on the marching field, they practice their performance and COVID-19 precautions.
Corey Pompey, director of athletic bands and associate director of bands at UW-Madison, says it’s difficult to play with COVID-19 guidelines, but worth it.
“I can imagine that it’s difficult for them, but, the important thing is were together,” Pompey said. “Wearing masks is a minor thing as long as were concerned.”
Band members and staff are taking safety precautions in order to be able to practice together.
They are being broken up into smaller groups, physically distancing, wearing masks and placing bell covers on instruments.
“My face has been smiling all day, there’s nothing like playing with everyone. It’s so special,” Richlen said.
Due to COVID restrictions, the varsity band will not hold its annual spring concert this year.
But Dr. Pompey says he is hopeful the badger band can return to mostly normal operations in the fall.
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