What would the holidays be without Christmas music? Due to the pandemic, many Christmas events have been put on hold or even cancelled,  but Instrumental Music Director David Bechard is still trying to share the Christmas spirit — from a distance.

“The biggest challenge this year has been safety,” said Bechard. “Playing with masks and bell covers, splitting into smaller class sizes, trying to practice at home while being contact traced or staying virtual for various reasons… It has been tough to coordinate getting the 50 members of our band together in the same place at the same time!”  

A typical December concert would involve sharing the stage with the entire Holy Family Music Department, including the Elementary School Band and Orchestra, the Middle School Band and Orchestra, and finishing with the High School Band. This year, however, the band will be doing something much different. 

“The Band is preparing to host a Winter Concert, but it will not be a ‘Live’ performance.  For the safety of our performers and our fans, we will be hosting our ‘Concert’ via Zoom, where we can all watch together with our friends and families from home… and maybe even reach some of our family members that live out of state!” explains Bechard.

Since the concert will be virtual, performances from the Concert Band, the Marching Band, and the Guitar Ensemble will be incorporated. “I don’t think we’ve ever had a ‘Marching Band’ performance at our December concert!” said Bechard. 

The concert band will be playing Christmas  songs such as “Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming,” and “I Saw Three Ships,” while the marching band and guitar ensemble will perform songs they played throughout the first semester. 

“Even though we’ve seen a number of new challenges this year, nothing can stop the energy, commitment and dedication of this Golden Eagle Band!  We have already overcome so much, and look forward to doing even more through the rest of the year.  And ya know what?  It’s never too late to pick up an instrument and join us!  We’d love to have you be a part of this family!” said Bechard.