Published August 27. 2020 02:17PM
Even before they knew whether a fall sports season would even be possible because of coronavirus guidelines, members of the Emmaus High School marching band were drilling themselves to be ready to play.
Band director Ryan Harrington, on the morning of Aug. 21, said band members were anxiously awaiting the expected Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association decision later that day, regarding a green light, or a delay, for a fall high school sports season.
“Everyone is enthusiastic about our practice sessions,” Harrington said, “and there’s a great deal of excitement about being able to perform this fall. But, if we can’t get on the field because of coronavirus postponements, it will probably be more difficult to keep up that spirit.”
Band members were proceeding, Harrington said, with the thought that the season would unfold.
Individual sections of the band were practicing together in small groups last week to hone their skills and then coming together to perform as the full marching band in parking areas surrounding the school along Harrison Street in the borough.
PRESS PHOTOS BY JIM MARSH Before joining the full Emmaus High School band, the saxophone section practices under a shade tree Aug. 21 in a school parking area. Story and additional photos appear on Page A15.
PRESS PHOTOS BY JIM MARSH The Emmaus High School band's brass and percussion sections practice a formation under the direction of drill instructor Rob Tocci.
The Emmaus High School marching band's percussion section sets the beat for a formation drill Aug. 21.
Although it is not possible for Emmaus High School xylophone player Rowan Wessner to have her instrument in drill formations, her tones provide an important accompaniment to the school marching band.
Band drill instructor Rob Tocci sets up a formation drill for the Emmaus High School marching band during a morning practice session Aug. 21.
Eve Boris practices a flag toss before her group joins the school's full band for a practice session in a school parking lot Aug. 21.
Caitlyn O'Brien stands on an elevated platform to direct the school's marching band as head drum major during a practice session of the school's marching band Aug. 21. Each section of the band dressed in a different whimsical costume to help build esprit de corps among band members.
After individual sections of the Emmaus High School marching band held their small group drills, the full band comes together as a whole unit.
Emmaus High School marching band director Ryan Harrington directs a musical selection during a practice session in a school parking area Aug. 21.
