The Bison Brigade is in full swing for the school year, but with COVID-19 a part of the equation, there have been a few necessary adjustments.

To meet CDC guidelines, the band hall, like classrooms, has to have students socially distanced and in masks except when physically playing instruments. In fact, the results of studies showed that instruments could actually increase the spread of the virus if precautions were not taken.

“I think during these times we just have to power through,” assistant drum major Omar Almeida said. “It may seem like a lot of regulations, but we have to do whatever we can in order to play.”

So the band has added masks to their uniforms, as well as covers for the brass instruments. They perform their halftime show without masks, but as soon as they are off the field, they’re required to put them back on.

“I think the hardest part after performing is trying to put on our masks right back on because it’s hard to catch our breath,” Luis Carrillo said. “But I’m just glad that there are performances at all since I’m a senior and I’m trying to enjoy this year.”

In order to help maintain a healthy environment, members are required to clean their instruments at the end of each week.

“We all take care of our instruments differently, but what I personally do is get rubbing alcohol and just wipe down my instruments thoroughly,” junior Maria Dominguez said. “The covers benefit us even more.”

With UIL competition looking unlikely, the band has been focusing on its Friday night performances, adjusting to their view from the track. The district made the decision that all band and drill team groups would be seated out of the stands and socially distanced near the field in order to allow stadiums to accommodate more fans.

“Not being in the stands has made it a little more difficult to feel like part of the Friday night experience,” director Jeff Villarreal said. “It’s something we’re trying to change by playing more involved songs. Songs that people can hear from that distance and enjoy.”