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Few clouds accompanied the scorching sun Wednesday afternoon, but the George Rogers Clark band created its own downpour.

Members of the color guard twirled cascading black umbrellas, while brass instruments summoned the wind and drums conjured thunder on a clear day.

The climax of the band’s new program had arrived.

“It’s about a storm, the faces of a storm,” freshman drummer J.D. Rison said.

Students and new band director Chris Yoo worked on the un-named program during their second and final week of band camp this week.

Band members have been practicing up to eight hours a day, five days a week, since July 19 when camp began, senior drum major Allie Marcum said.

“I think it’s going really well,” she said. “We have about one-third of our program on the field.”

The band’s new repertoire features several 20th century compositions, which Yoo considers “new,” and some pieces from lesser known movie soundtracks.

He said audiences are unlikely to recognize any of the music, but will be able to follow the weather-themed story that begins with calm, sunny conditions then escalates into a storm and clears up again.

Yoo, who arrived at GRC less than a month ago, said students and staff members were working hard during camp, battling high temperatures and adjusting to changes that came with new leadership.

“It’s a learning process,” he said. “The students are getting to know the staff. The staff are getting to know the students , but we’re working together really well, better than I expected.”

The students seemed to agree.

Multiple band members praised Yoo’s organization, motivation and highly structured practices.

“He’s just increased the discipline, which is exactly what we needed,” Marcum said. “He’s doesn’t let people slide by.”

Marcum and senior color guard co-captain Lindsey Wade said the band is off to a good start in its quest to return to the state competition, which it did last fall.

But, Yoo’s goal for his students during camp and the season is more long term.

“It’s mainly just trying to teach them the work ethic — how to reach the goals we set for them, just like they do in the class room, just like they do when they graduate and go on to college,” he said.

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