The enforced isolation of most of the performers on the planet isn’t stopping them making music together and one of the few lovely things to have come out the Corona crisis is the rise of the “virtual choir” phenomenon. Unable to meet in person each member of a choir contributes via a video link from their self-isolation.
I'm not quite sure why the best of these performances are so moving. Perhaps it’s the sheer will power of so many people determined to keep making music together despite the horror around us. Perhaps the little boxes that fill the screen with videos of people in their homes dealing with isolation in their own way make us feel less alone at a time when we’re forced to be so. Or perhaps it’s just hearing exquisite harmony. It’s probably a combination of all three and the way that music can remind us of happier times.
Anyway I hope you’ll enjoy this little selection I’ve made. Mostly, but not all musical related. Put on your headphones, play these loud and proud and have a box of tissues to hand.
1. Ok. Let’s start with a relatively simple but rather touching rendition of SOMEWHERE OVER THE RAINBOW from THE WIZARD OF OZ.
These high school students’ choir concert was cancelled because of the COVID-19 pandemic — so they performed their cover of ‘Over the Rainbow’ virtually instead.
2. Here’s, Camden Voices, a British choir.
In their own words “In a time of physical isolation, we believe more than ever in creating new ways to stay in touch and keep doing the things we love. So, with that in mind, here is our first ever virtual performance of the gorgeous True Colours, recorded straight from our own homes. We hope it brings some happiness and calm in these crazy times”
3. Here’s another American choir of Adults this time. Their leader Shelbie Rassler says “Just a little something to brighten your day. What started as an idea on my flight home from college ended in a collaboration with some of the most incredible people. I couldn't be more grateful. Please share to help us promote positivity and optimism while we need it most”
4. Have you needed those tissues yet? You will now!
As the folk at DEAR EVAN HANSEN explain “From Japan to Norway, fans from 31 countries around the world have lent their hearts and talents to the “You Will Be Found” Virtual Choir, proving once again that every voice matters”
5. Still not crying? Right. Time for the big guns!
Here’s 17 young musicians “who have all been affected by cancer” singing 'This Is Me' from The Greatest Showman.
They've been brought together by CLIC Sargent, the UK’s leading support charity for young cancer patients. “Our Music Service helps young people with the emotional impact of cancer by providing individual mentoring, residential workshops, recording studio experience and performance opportunities”
Enough! Now go and dry your eyes - and wash your hands!
A ludicrous amount of productions of MACBETH by William Shakespeare are currently available to watch in self-isolation via streaming services.