LAWRENCE, Kan. — Playing an instrument such as a flute with a mask on seems like it would be impossible, but students at the University of Kansas School of Music are doing just that.
KU's symphony orchestra is adjusting to a new normal.
First, the group has been cut in half when it comes to practice.
Their rehearsal room now has chairs spread out 6 feet from one another and students and teachers must wear masks the entire time.
“I don’t really notice it as much. It’s just a different way to play," said student Arabella Schwerin of wearing her mask while playing the cello.
She said this type of rehearsal is something she has never experienced before.
“We aren’t able to sit next to each other, but we can still play together and make sound together," Schwerin said. "They are all over there and to the side of me. So, sometimes I don't hear them at all."
Pre-pandemic, the group would normally pack a room, with people sitting close to each other and sharing music stands.
“We are finding new ways each rehearsal. This is week three of ours and we recorded a short piece and each rehearsal we are just getting better and better with how we play as an ensemble," Joseph Chan said.
Musicians such as tuba and flute players wear special masks while rehearsing. A simple slit cut in the masks allows them to play and not miss a beat.
KU Symphony Orchestra is adjusting to a whole new way to rehearsing. You’ll see some students are playing with special masks on! A story you’ll only see on @41actionnews tomorrow night. #KU @MusicKU pic.twitter.com/biEPJ7Cx0x
— Jordan Betts (@JordanBettsTV) September 8, 2020
“With flute, a lot of the air just goes straight forward. So, this kind of keeps it more back towards us rather than anyone else," flutist Chloe Descher said.
Several instruments have covers on them in hopes of preventing the spread of COVID-19. Tuba players use the covers but are going the extra mile to protect everyone by playing outside.
Those musicians said due to how much air is blowing out of their instrument, outside is the best option.
Students said this time is stressful for them, with new adjustments and worrying about the virus, but the music helps as they face an uncertain future.
“Music is more than something you don’t really need. It’s something that everybody does need to be together and to connect us all," Schwerin said.
KU Symphony Orchestra will play a live concert on Sept. 30 at 7:30 p.m. No one will be allowed to watch in-person, but it will be live streamed on the School of Music's Website.
