Yesterday, Laura Howe (Musical Director) and Helen White (choir member) were interviewed by Carole Walker for The Times Radio, about the impact of lockdown on choirs, and how we might safely plan a return.

Listen to the interview here at 1:36: https://www.thetimes.co.uk/radio/show/20200824-2978/2020-08-24

Can choirs return to singing yet?

Thanks to a new study which suggests “singing does not produce substantially more respiratory particles than speaking at a similar volume” there are fresh hopes about a return to choir singing, albeit at a lower volume:

“It is not about the vocalisation – whether it’s singing or speaking – it is about the volume,” Jonathan Reid, co-author of the research. “Just by singing a little bit more softly you really reduce the risk.” The Guardian

Government guidance previously contained additional mitigation for singing, wind and brass given potentially higher risk factors. Following the research, the guidance was updated on 15th August to state that:

Both professionals and non-professionals can now engage in singing, wind and brass in line with this guidance. People should continue to socially distance from those they do not live with wherever possible. Venues, performers and audiences should ensure 2m distancing applies wherever possible.” GOV website

Stay tuned for more updates from Some Voices on how and when we might plan a return to choir singing.

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