Deans Message #3 7/3/2020

Message 3 (7/31/2020)

Friends;

After several months of absence from our building, this new academic year brings with it a return to on-site music-making, and I couldn't be more excited to hear our faculty and students perform!  Obviously, ensemble performance this year will look very different than before.  COVID-19 best practices are at the center of our thinking.  Rehearsal durations will change, set-ups will be reconfigured, and physical distancing will be implemented. We will also make use of the green space around our building. While this creates new challenges, there will also be new opportunities for our ensembles, and I am confident that we will find fresh inspiration in these unique circumstances.

A great deal of discussion, work, and study has gone into addressing the many questions that you may have regarding ensemble rehearsal and performance.  We are committed to your health and safety, and we are committed to following the best scientific guidance at our disposal.   I am deeply grateful to all of our faculty in the Conducting and Ensembles Concentration for their thoughtful and careful work in preparation for this semester's ensemble activities.  I am also deeply grateful to the Physical Plant and Biosafety experts here on our campus whose advice we sought and embraced.

Attached, please find two documents.  One document replicates the letter that has already been disseminated to the University Symphony Orchestra.   The  other document details the plans and protocols for the other choral and instrumental ensembles.  For additional questions about orchestra, please contact Professor Kimcherie Lloyd.  For additional questions regarding bands, choral, and other ensembles, please contact Dr. Fred Speck.  Please contact Dr. Amy Acklin for questions regarding the Cardinal Marching Band.

The circumstances related to the Coronavirus continue to evolve, so please note that any information you receive is current as of the day sent.  We anticipate that there may be changes and adjustments along the way.  We will endeavor to keep you updated on a continual basis, as your wellbeing remains our primary concern.

Warmly,
Teresa