LBHS Band has a virtual learning experience!
Lord Botetourt Band is having sections practice together in the summer sunshine. It is an exercise in virtual education on this toasty July day. The percussion section is practicing with their instructor Darrell Rose. Rose has health issues that preclude him from being able to have in person instruction. They practice together from 9-12 for the next few days. The drumline had Cavalier hill resounding with some great beats.
The students were socially distanced and following Rose’s instructions virtually over the speaker system
Caldwell checks-in the students and they set up and are ready. Rose calls out to the students, “This one is a new one.” They ready the music and give it a go, but it is a difficult piece. He stops and they offer to play another they have mastered for the video! It is called “Barracuda.”
After they finish, Rose says, “ Lets go back to the new one.” And so, they resume the mastery of music.
Band Director Chris Caldwell set up for the Facetime instruction as Rose teaches the students from his home. It was awesome to watch. The students are: Chloe Beasely, Emily Barton, Ethan Fouch, all Seniors, Clay Houston, Austin Amiss, Riley Rothwell, Sam Crane, Griffin Davidson, (and not present Harmony Musser)
Caldwell said, “ This gets the kids started again. There will be no Band Camp or Fall competition series. We are waiting to see what the VHSL decides to do about Fall activities. We do have a Botetourt 250th Anniversary program that we will perform in 2021.”
Until then, the band will continue section practice outdoors and keep music in practice until school begins.
–Story by Cathy Benson, video and photo
