The marching arts activity continues to face countless challenges—canceled events, decreased funding, remote participants, and lack of support from athletic conferences. Despite all the struggles, groups have found ways to overcome the obstacles.
Last issue, we wrote about high school bands that marched through the pandemic. While being sidelined from games, college bands proved even more innovative as they supported their teams and created performance outlets for their students, as highlighted in “Marching Through a Pandemic Part 2”.
In “Marching Medicine,” we detail how bands and corps have become more adept at helping performers manage chronic conditions and injuries. These best practices bode well as the mysteries of COVID-19’s long-term effects continue to be uncovered.
One drum major from the Stillwater (Oklahoma) Marching Band shares her story about “Growth Through Vulnerability,” while dealing with the pandemic. We also highlight my son’s band—Sycamore High School in Cincinnati, Ohio—as the director discusses the establishment of a family culture starting with beginning band that leads to a continuity of commitment into the future, even during difficult times.
Halftime Magazine is not immune from the economic struggles of COVID-19. After 13.5 years, Halftime Magazine will transition from a print magazine to a digital publication—with the same type of layout and content that you enjoy—starting with the Jan/Feb 2021 issue. Current print subscribers and any interested new readers should sign up for a free digital subscription on our website.
At the same time, Halftime Magazine has persevered and created new ways to showcase the performing arts. We have partnered with several organizations to sponsor the College Band Directors National Association Intercollegiate Marching Band (IMB). With nearly 1,500 performers from 200 college bands, the virtual performance will premiere online during halftime of the College Football Playoff National Championship Game on Jan. 11, 2021.
In addition, Muse Media, LLC, the parent company of Halftime Magazine, has published its first book, a 10th anniversary rerelease of “Confessions of a Teenage Band Geek” by Courtney Brandt. Order the full e-book or paperback copy, just in time for the holidays, on Amazon.com. If you have a completed book manuscript—fiction or non-fiction with a performing arts angle—check out our submission guidelines online.
As we end the year, I want to thank you—our fans, partners, advertisers, and readers—for your support of Halftime Magazine and the performing arts in general.
Keep on Marching,
Christine Ngeo Katzman
Publisher and Editor-in-Chief
