Up To Date

How High School Bands & Choirs In Kansas And Missouri Are Adapting Because Of The Coronavirus

By Steve Kraske,

Published September 23, 2020 at 4:49 PM CDT

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Masked band members try to keep their distance during band camp at Valley Center High School. — Masked drum line members during a summer band camp at Valley Center High School in Kansas.

Social distancing, mask protocols, and programming changes are all being implemented to accommodate the safety of band and choir students this fall.

Middle and high school fine arts programs are grappling with coronavirus risk and safety. “There is a certain amount of responsibility you have regardless of what the climate is," choir director Brian Hartman said.

Damian Johnson, director of bands at Eudora Middle and High School
Brian Hartman, choir director and Performing Arts Department chair at Liberty North High School

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Steve Kraske

When I host Up To Date each morning at 9, my aim is to engage the community in conversations about the Kansas City area’s challenges, hopes and opportunities. I try to ask the questions that listeners want answered about the day’s most pressing issues and provide a place for residents to engage directly with newsmakers. Reach me at steve@kcur.org or on Twitter @stevekraske.

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Luke X. Martin

As culture editor, I oversee KCUR’s coverage of race, culture, the arts, food and sports. I work with reporters to make sure our stories reflect the fullest view of the place we call home, so listeners and readers feel primed to explore the places, projects and people who make up a vibrant Kansas City. Email me at luke@kcur.org.

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Chris Young

Chris Young is an Assistant Producer for KCUR’s Up To Date. Contact him at chrisy@kcur.org.

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