I am concerned that NYSDOH did not take into account the study at the University of Colorado or the findings of the NYSSMA ad-hoc committee on the future of ensembles. I believe that at this point, there is no evidence that playing a wind instrument (with mitigation) or singing (with mitigation) is more dangerous than sitting in any other class. All of the studies that I have read suggest that six feet of social distance should be sufficient. NYSBDA intends to provide guidance that is consistent with current research, such as the University of Colorado coalition.
If you, or any of your administrators have any questions, please contact me at executive@nysbda.org.
