Looking for ways to pass the rest of the lockdown period? Here are some all-ages, low-cost and fun ways to keep spirits up during this time of Covid-19
1.Join a concert online
As many artists, bands and orchestras are in self-isolation around the world and are unable to tour, many have taken to performing online.
NPR has a rolling list of scheduled performances that include Nadia Reid, Melissa Etheridge and Metropolitan Opera
Closer to home, artists like Six60, The Beths, Louis Baker, Darren Watson, Hollie Fullbrook and Drax Project are performing via their social media platforms.
For classical music fans, the NZSO’s Play our Part series has players from different sections performing select pieces from their homes every Wednesday at 7:30pm. Join the livestream here or via the RNZ Concert Facebook page.
You can enjoy the Royal New Zealand Ballet “live in your living room”. This Friday, Saturday and Sunday, tune into the livestream of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, or via the RNZ Concert Facebook page..
2. Watch (and learn)
You don’t have to be a passive music fan while in self-isolation.
With the power of your local library card you can watch music documentaries, video tutorials and instructional courses to learn guitar, bass, jazz piano, voice and there are even tutorials for audio production.
Through many local library websites you will have free access to online platforms such as Lynda.com, Kanopy, Overdrive and Beamafilm where you will find music documentaries, concert performances and the instructional courses.
There is definitely enough to keep you going so long as your bandwidth and attention span can cope!
3. Sing, sing a song!
We know singing is good for you, so what better way to boost your mood than to have a good hearty singalong?
Pub Sing is hosting a weekly 'Quarantine Choir' via video meeting platform Zoom. Choir director Katy Pakinga says that it’s open to all ages and singing abilities. The vocal tutor and professional performer guides the choir through familiar and well known songs to suit young and old.
4. Get DIY
There are many digital and analogue ways to make your tunes.
Earlier in March, Korg offered free downloads of their Kaoscillator app.
The music app lets you sequence and manipulate a wealth of sounds and instruments by simply moving a finger across the screen.
Cakewalk and Syndsphere are two of many music creation apps perfect for restless hands that need something to do.
For a more full-body experience, Semi-Conductor is an AI project that allows you to be a music conductor through your internet browser.
If you want to get more tactile and technology free, here’s some great instructions on how to make your own instruments from household objects.
5. Listening is good
Ultimately, if all of this just seems a bit too much. We highly recommend digging back into your music collection and revisiting some old favourites, or hit play on this excellent playlist curated by our own Tony Stamp.
