The PODIUM
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More Traveling, More Fellowship, More Opportunities for Brotherhood by Mason Smith Epsilon Gamma - ΚΚΨ Alabama State University
B
ands, brothers, and sisters across the country were forced to adapt and sacrifice due to the coronavirus pandemic, from practicing with masks and social distancing, to conducting events and conventions virtually. A lot was missed during those months, but what did we miss the most? Something that all band members hold dearly: brotherhood and sisterhood. It is common practice for chapters to meet with one another during football games, connect – or reconnect for familiar faces – exchange gifts, take photos, and even sing the hymn if there is time. It is also common to see new faces at district conventions, growing a stronger bond with those who serve in the same area. Unfortunately, COVID-19 halted those moments we’ve grown accustomed to. Bands were not allowed to travel to away games, CDC guidelines and health and safety protocols did not allow for large gatherings, and interaction with brothers from around the district and country were often limited to Zoom. Granted, we made the most of it: the calls were interactive, and it was still a joy to see brothers and sisters after spending months isolated during the height of the pandemic. Even with those valiant efforts, however, it could not replace the intimate relationships you build by being in person. Just when times seemed at its toughest, 2020 ended and gave way to
28 - Kappa Kappa Psi & Tau Beta Sigma
Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma from Alabama State and Jackson State 2021, and things started to go in our favor; COVID cases began to go down, vaccines were created, and most importantly, the opportunity to congregate again arose, starting with the National Convention in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Brothers and sisters gathered to acquire knowledge and attend workshops, but more importantly shared spaces with each other, hear live music, and build bonds in a way that was a
year in the making. This year was more than simply gathering in a spot, it was a renewed spirit. That spirit carried over into the football season, where brothers could finally travel and interact with other chapters. Brothers and sisters were reunited for what’s usually the only time you’ll see them, not to consider how much as changed since the last get together. New brothers and sisters joined our beloved organizations, and sadly brothers and sisters, including myself, had to move to the next chapter before having the chance to enjoy the post-COVID experience. That said, it’s still a pleasure to see brothers and sisters smiling and creating new relationships in a time we thought we’d never see. Now with this renewed bond, the brothers and sisters of Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma can move forward its goals of musicianship and service. I’ve seen the light and fire in some that I have never seen before, along with a determination to do great things for college and university bands. There is nothing we can do to change the past, or to get back all the memories we missed out on. What we can do, however, is make the most of the time we have now. Take as many opportunities as we can to meet new brothers and sisters, do not take those times for granted, take plenty of photos (you can never have enough), and remember that when we have nothing else, we still have brotherhood and sisterhood.
