Pandemic Compels Lafayette Band to Cancel Summer Concerts

North Kingstown RI

06 June, 2020

3:43 PM

Description

Due to the COVID-19 health crisis, the Lafayette Band of North Kingstown has cancelled its summer season schedule that was planned to start on June 24. The decision aligns with the "reopening Rhode Island" plan issued by the state in response to the coronavirus pandemic. The state's current social distancing guidelines limit gatherings to 15 people, thus prohibiting Lafayette Band concerts and similar events. The band also had previously cancelled its annual Armed Forces Salute concert, which was scheduled in May. "Of course, we're disappointed to miss the summer season," says Jackie Lamoureux, president of the Lafayette Band. "However, Director Beth Bromley has created several concert programs with the hope that the band will be able to play for an audience at some point this year, as Rhode Island reopens further." The band stays ready for its next performance by continuing to play "apart and together," according to Lamoureux. "Band members practice the music on their own and then gather on weekly Zoom meetings for virtual rehearsals," she says. The Lafayette Band is a nonprofit community concert band with a mission to strengthen North Kingstown and surrounding communities through music. Founded more than 135 years ago, it is one of the oldest bands in Rhode Island. Though based in North Kingstown, the band's members reside in many communities in Southeast New England. For more information about future concerts, follow the band on Facebook at Lafayette Band - Rhode Island or visit lafayettebandri.org. -30-