Art in a Pandemic, Part 2 of 2

To contain the spread of Covid-19, more than a third of the world’s population went into various forms of lockdown at one time or another, with some countries implementing the most restrictive mass quarantines ever seen. In a time when normal social contact is not possible, music helps people connect, share their joys and sadness to ease the loneliness of lockdown. Music can comfort, give strength, and inspire hope. After the coronavirus outbreak in Wuhan, China, forty artists from France, Canada, Italy and other countries sent their well wishes to the Chinese people through a song called “Together.” As Covid-19 spread to Europe, Italy saw rapid infections, overwhelming the country’s hospitals and medical personnel. A strict lockdown was implemented and its citizens helplessly watched as the virus claimed more victims, sometimes close neighbors. In a difficult time when sadness clouded the rays of hope, people took to the balconies to play music and sing songs of encouragement. Inspired by Italy, people from different countries also stepped outside to remotely send messages of solidarity via music. Virtual concerts and choirs have become very popular because of the lockdown. Utilizing online tools and technology, musicians are able to collaborate with each other for amazing performances. Laura Campbell from Melbourne, Australia, founded the Virtual Concert Band as a means for musicians of all skill levels from around the world to cooperate and create music. The online platform has recordings submitted by 225 musicians from 29 different countries. Some annual musical events also went virtual. The April 30th International Jazz Day that was scheduled to be held in Cape Town, South Africa, was celebrated through a virtual global concert. We offer our sincere thanks and prayers for all the musicians around the world. May you always have the support and comforts needed to continue your beautiful, uplifting work. We also pray that when we come out of this Covid-19 crisis, we will be more compassionate for one another and for all sentient beings.