The Way for Art to Live

Signed Picasso 4.3.59 Painting On Sheet Music

When do we move from our current reality to COVID-19 becoming Endemic? I recently learned that it generally takes two to three years. As orchestras across the globe reimagined their 2020-2021 concert seasons and eventually found our footing on digital concert platforms, we were all filled with hope in the early part of the summer that a return to normalcy awaited the musical arts. It is no surprise that the Delta Variant — which cut short several summer music festivals — has continued causing issues for orchestras. Sadly, variances will continue to emerge unless enough people are vaccinated. The biggest frustration for musicians, orchestras, and boards is that this can end now. How? Vaccinations.

Yes, Zoom helped people stay connected; it even created a platform for the musical arts organizations to connect with audiences — but people are “Zoomed-out” and desire in-person connections. While COVID-19 silver linings are few and far between, it did demonstrate how essential the performing arts are to bringing people together and creating shared experiences that elevate our lives. How do we create the space for these kinds of shared experiences again? Vaccinations. 

The Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine just got full FDA approval and has opened the door to more vaccine requirements from organizations, businesses, and universities because it creates safer spaces for people to work, learn and share ideas. By encouraging and requiring vaccines, more people can safely gather to share in experiences; holiday traditions like Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker will live again and choirs and orchestras can join forces to bring forth the message of brotherly love that is central to Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy.” 

Do you want to support the arts? Vaccinate.