Decorah High School Marching Band rolled with the COVID punches this year

This year's marching band season was unlike any other for the Pride of the Vikings Marching Band. The start of their season was pushed back due to COVID-19, and when rehearsals were able to begin, they were split in two groups: 9th and 10th grade rehearsed at one practice, and 11th and 12th rehearsed at another. Masks and bell covers were required to be used at all times during rehearsals, and they had to stand 5 yards apart. This year, the band did not perform at the Iowa High School Music Association State Marching Band Festival. The festival was cancelled, and the band did not submit a video of their performance.

But through these challenges, the band learned more about musicality and was able to focus more on techniques and playing styles. This drastically improved the sound of the band when they were able to take bell covers off for performances.

"We are extremely proud and thankful of the way our band students and especially our seniors handled the disappointment of not being able to have a normal marching band season," said Associate Principal and Athletic Director Adam Riley.

Band director Dustin Bliven added, "I couldn't ask for a better group of musicians!"