SingScreen

What is the Evidence?

It is clear there is a lot of concern about the transmission of infectious diseases through the air and upon contact with surfaces, particularly in the light of the current COVID 19 pandemic.

Often rehearsals, lessons, coaching & chamber performances can take place in small enclosed spaces, not allowing an appropriate distance between the performer and those working with them. HM Government continues to recommend that this distance is at least 2 metres between people from different households with this changing to 1m+ being adopted 'with mitigations'. Guidance on performance and rehearsal has also recently been updated. (May 2021)

These issues facing our industry have been particularly highlighted by the emergence of COVID 19, which is carried in droplets (& most probably in aerosols) expelled by infected persons.

The latest epidemiology has been interpreted by various bodies, including governments and many recommend physical barriers between musicians and those around them can help mitigate against the risk of infection (much as there is a benefit to wearing a mask). There is an additional benefit of increased confidence in those wanting to engage in musical activities. This is in addition to other methods of mitigation such as good ventilation, mask wearing (in certain circumstances), sanitising touch points and hand hygiene. The Royal School of Church Music, for instance, has recommended the use of Perspex/Acrylic screening as a suitable mitigation method for music making/performance in worship. The Scottish Government has recommended similar measure for performances more generally. In addition there is a recently published (but as yet non peer reviewed, UK study into voice and COVID 19 risks as well as updated guidance for schools on co and extra-curricular activities).

If we are to bounce back (getting back to working physically), which is surely better than working in the virtual world, then; we need to find ways to mitigate risk, making it manageable for all parties.*

We recommend that you follow updates from industry associations or trade bodies including: The Department for Education, The Musicians' Union, The Incorporated Society of Musicians and Royal School of Church Music.