INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. —Indiana State School Music Association events across the state have officially been cancelled through April 11 to protect students from coronavirus exposure.

The ISSMA Executive Committee announced the cancellations in a press release Wednesday, detailing the organization's effort to safeguard the nearly 35,000 students expected to participate in the festivals.

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Included are all Junior/Middle/Elementary Concert Organization Festivals and the ISSMA State Show Choir and Jazz Finals. These events were to feature students from more than 300 schools and take place at 30 different school facilities statewide.

Before making this decision, ISSMA Executive Director Michael Bridgewater said organization members consulted with the Indiana State Department of Health about the risks associated with large gatherings.

While Bridgewater said the organization understands the disappointment felt by students and families, he and other ISSMA members determined there was no viable alternative to the cancellation.

"We made a decision that's best for the public and the students," Bridgewater said.

"Most directors have been very supportive. They understand the position we're in."

However, in accordance with ISSMA's mission to provide educationally evaluated performance opportunities, the ISSMA release noted a process is being set up to allow directors of ensembles to submit video recordings for evaluation.