Jersey singers call for easing of restrictions in line with other industries
Choirs and singers in Jersey are putting pressure on the government to ease the restrictions which stop them singing.
Singing is not advised under Level 1 of the Safe Exit framework, due to the potential for droplets to transmit the virus.But singers say they feel unfairly treated, not least following research published in the UK last week, which concluded that singing carried no more risk than speaking at a similar volume.The UK government relaxed its rules as a result of the study but so far, there has been no movement in Jersey.Francis Murton is the Choir Conductor for the Jersey Island Singers. He says they are desperate for some guidance within which to resume their singing.
Church choirs have also gone silent. Nick Cabot leads the Trinity Church choir and whilst he misses song, the demographic of many church goers, means he is happy to take the precautions.
He says he would like to see further research on singing in groups which could be directly applied to choirs. Nicki Kennedy is a soprano and music teacher. She moved all lessons online when the pandemic hit, but is frustrated by the continued restrictions.She is also concerned about the impact it may have on music generally, in the long term.
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