If there’s anybody that can bring student spirit to a football game without students— it’s the band.

As a group that dedicates time to their craft both inside and outside of the classroom, the Liberty Eagle Regiment had to adapt their rehearsals to the new preventative measures.

Abiding by CDC guidelines and studies by Colorado State University, the regiment has been able to maintain safety while rehearsing their show, “One Small Step.” Even with changes to how rehearsals are conducted, band director Mr. O’Donnell is grateful for the opportunity to perform.

“We are stoked that we are still able to have activities, because several schools have tighter restrictions,” Mr. O’Donnell said. Band members prevent contact by staying 6 feet apart, wearing a face mask when not playing their instrument, doing small sectional work, and adjusting their horn angles.

Summer is instrumental for preparation, as members learn how to march and work on memorizing their music, not to mention learning how to put those two skills together. The color guard team had to explore creative ways to rehearse as well, practicing over Zoom for the first couple months. In addition to the preventative measures set forth for the band, color guard team members cannot share any equipment or makeup with one another. 

“I stay motivated by just trying to be the best I can for the performances we do have,” color guard member Maddie Sanderson (11) said.

But nevertheless, the band is fortified by its leaders, including drum major Leticia Lopez (12).

“Our leadership team has done a great job to be encouraging and building relationships with the rest of the band,” Lopez said.

Optimism during rehearsals is a must this year, as the sanctioned practice time has been significantly cut down. Normally having eight-hour rehearsals for two weeks, the regiment had to switch to two-hour rehearsals for two weeks. But Lopez believes it’s the little actions that count.

“Just having a positive attitude during rehearsals and performances makes a difference,” Lopez said.

As for the rest of the season, future band competitions are still in the works in a virtual form. 

“We have some new opportunities, like virtual competitions, which would allow us to submit our best performance possible instead of performing live,” Sanderson said. “It’s also a great season to just learn and improve without having quite as much pressure on you.”

For football games, the vitality that the band brings to the bleachers had to be moved to the end zone to allow for proper social distancing. But luckily, the distance between the crowd and the band will never stop them from bringing their energy and cheering on the football team during the game.