Where's The Music?

Whether we realize it or not, music has always been a strong point in our daily lives. We could be listening to the radio in the car, listening to music at work, and not really realize that it's an important aspect to our daily routine. Music has a way of releasing emotions within us, or even has a way of calming us down. Music was also a fun activity that we could engage in, with symphony concerts, music concerts, or just a simple karaoke night at the bar.

Then..COVID hit the nation, and with it brought a major hit to the music industry.

As a music educator, I have seen the impact the pandemic has had on the musical world. Broadway and the Met have been shut down until 2021, no symphony concerts, and no outdoor concerts, nothing. Students aren't able to sing or play an instrument in school now. The musical world is quiet. Artists are out of work with no light at the end of the tunnel. However, there is a little bit of hope. Even when there is darkness, we can still bring the music to life.

How can we bring music to life if there is a pandemic? How will we ever get back to normalcy within the musical world? There are lots of options!

1. Listen to a genre of music you have never listened to before. Play Amazon music or Spotify on shuffle and see what comes up. You never know what genres of music you may be interested in! I am a personal fan of Spotify's "New Music Fridays".

2. Create musical instruments at home! If you have small children, I HIGHLY suggest having them create their own instruments at home that would engage them in musical activities. They could even create their own "rock band".

3. Learn an instrument! I recently opened up a music studio with my partner in Colorado, and I can't tell you how many folks are excited for their students to have music lessons! Not only is learning a new instrument fun, but it opens up a whole new world.

4. Watch concerts online! I know, it's just not the same as being there in person, but it's pretty close! Several symphony orchestras and bands have live concerts once a week online, so turn your living room into a concert viewing space!

Most importantly, things will one day get back to normal, but for now, this is what we have available. It's time to go discover more of the musical world and embrace it!