Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, Saint Mary's University of Minnesota is using new and creative ways for the band to practice and perform this fall, a release issued on the university's website said.

"Rehearsals look a little differently for band members this fall, with musicians often heading outdoors to social distance— for as long as weather permits," the university said in the release. "Band members are also wearing special masks, and bell covers have been added as precautionary measures."

Director Janet Heukeshoven noted that keeping the music going is important.

“During this time when so much has been taken away from our students’ lives, making live music together becomes even more important, not only for the creative music experiences, but the emotional and social aspects of playing music together," she said. "Music nurtures the human soul!" 

She spent the summer with other music faculty coming up with the best ways to allow students to continue making music. Jazz groups are practicing with masks and bell covers, and choirs are wearing "singers scarves" while social distancing.