Things have been changing quite a bit in Beaver Area’s music department. Many of their activities, which usually would happen live, have been put on hold or changed due to the pandemic and online school. However, the show choir is now able to resume their usual rehearsals—under less than usual circumstances.

“We just had our first rehearsal this past Monday [September 21]; it was so nice just to be back together making music,” senior Isabella DiPietrantonio shared.

As mentioned in the previous music department article, show choir may rehearse on the auditorium stage under new regulations. All members must wear masks during rehearsal.

Additionally, tape has been put on the stage at six foot intervals to allow the performers to rehearse while maintaining a safe distance. Their dance routines have also needed updating, as the choreography must be made adaptable for social distancing.

DiPietrantonio and junior Grace Jessel are this year’s co-choreographers.

“It’s not easy to sing and dance with the mask,” Jessel noted. “But everyone’s taking proper precautions and making an effort to do this, and I think that’s really inspiring.”

Each year, show choir has a new theme, and 2020 is no different. The theme for this year is “movie musicals.” (What, you were expecting “Pandemic in the Park” or maybe “A Medley of Covid Classics”?)

Jessel described some of the music they’re currently working with: “Right now we’re rehearsing ‘Footloose’ from Footloose, and ‘You Can’t Stop the Beat’ from Hairspray. We have the music for a couple other songs from several movie musicals that we’ll be working on as the year progresses.”

As for upcoming performances, unfortunately none are currently on the calendar. However, they are considering some potential outdoor concerts in the spring, but nothing is definite.

Some members are just happy to be able to perform under these circumstances.

“I feel like we’re doing well with the new regulations. I’m just excited we are able to do show choir this year,” junior Kaiya Brashaers shared.

As for the rest of the music department, other changes have been taking place.

“We were amazed by the changes in the music wing,” DiPietrantonio shared. “The ensembles (band, chorus, and orchestra) have switched rooms.”

Show Choir director Mrs. Susan Metelsky had to be innovative in her approach to the choral programs this year. According to DiPietrantonio, chairs have been limited in each ensemble room to adhere to the social distancing guidelines.

DiPietrantonio shared praise for the Show Choir, along with some words of wisdom.

“I think the show choir, and music in general will do well under all circumstances; music is a light through dark times that brings people together; acting as an emotional outlet, and is an overall powerful expression.”