Your old high school band days may be of use to the musical groups at Gibraltar Area Schools.

Like many music programs across the country, the pandemic took its toll as rehearsals and concerts went from being in-person to virtual, something that even the best technology could not master. Band programs like Gibraltar’s took a big hit in participation with a once 70-plus member ensemble now standing at just 29. New protocols and bad habits have crept into rehearsals as students adjust to playing together in some cases for the first time in close to two years.

The Band Buddies program being created by director Charlie Eckhardt would link community members to musicians in the ensemble to mentor the students. Eckhardt hopes it injects some new life into his bands.

Volunteers will have to pass a background check and follow the necessary COVID-19 protocols. You can click on this link to learn more about the program. 

Picture courtesy of Gibraltar Area Schools from Fall Fest 2019