School of the Osage Marching Band readies for the season

Posted

An integral part of any school district is its music department, and the School of the Osage Marching Band has been practicing and conditioning since late July. The band will make its first public debut at the home football game Sept. 1.
Led by director Jeff Kile, the band has had early-morning practices at the football field despite the heat. Included in the daily routine is a variety of warmup and conditioning exercises before the band begins marching and instrumental practice.
Because of the heat and humidity, the band takes three-minute water breaks during practice and band members are allowed to have their water bottles nearby during routines.
The Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA) has developed guidelines for activity practices and contests. The MSHSAA Board Directors approved the Wet Bulb Globe Thermometer (WBGT) as the recommended measurement practice and device for measuring  acceptable heat/humidity levels for practices and contests. The use of WBGT is recommended throughout the calendar year when ambient temperature is above 80 degrees. 
Kile is assisted by Kelsey Withacre, assistant director; Jessica Claxton, percussion director; Erin Elley, color guard director.