How can I keep from singing? The effects of COVID-19 on the emotional wellbeing of community singers during early stage lockdown in the United States

Abstract

This study investigates the emotional wellbeing of community choral musicians during the early lockdown stage of the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States. In an effort to understand participant wellbeing and document lived experiences in rapidly changing circumstances, the researchers gathered quantitative and qualitative data from almost 400 self-identified musicians in May–June 2020. Responses from community choir members indicated decreased wellbeing as a result of cancelled rehearsals and performances, unfamiliar online musicking practices and loss of community. Other themes included sadness, worry and grief concerning separation from fellow ensemble members and, in the case of ageing choristers, fear that they might not sing with others again in their lifetimes. Ultimately, this article sheds light on the complexity and necessity of sustaining community choirs during the COVID-19 pandemic while addressing the decreased wellbeing of singers as they were isolated in an effort to prevent viral spread through aerosolized means.