Celebrating Classical Music Month in a Pandemic

by C.J. Heck, Augustana Arts Marketing Coordinator

Did you know that there is an entire month dedicated to listening to, performing, and appreciating Classical music? In 1994, Bill Clinton designated September as “Classical Music Month.” Unfortunately, the 2020 pandemic has redefined the ways in which we might normally appreciate music, like attending the symphony on the weekend or attending choir rehearsals. Luckily, there are still many ways to support the arts from the comfort of your own home (or from 6 feet away), and Classical Music Month is the best time to do it!

1)     Find online performances.

Whether or not these concerts are live, most organizations are offering their music to be absorbed online. Check your local orchestra or choir’s Facebook, YouTube, or webpage to find pre-recorded or live concerts for you to enjoy. Being online means ultimate flexibility; you can choose the exact pieces you want to hear, listen for five minutes or five hours, or maybe hear the orchestra 1000 miles away that you’ve always admired. So, sit back and enjoy a concert in the most comfortable venue yet—your living room (with no dress code, long bathroom lines, or wondering if you can eat in your seat!).

2)     Attend an outdoor concert.

Things are slowly returning to normal thanks to the return of outdoor performances. Outdoor amphitheaters are great venues in which to enjoy live music right now, while still minimizing the risk of spreading COVID-19. Keep an eye and ear out for these performances through your local radio, newspaper, and web, and enjoy a beautiful summer night with a concert under the stars. Beware, though—these concerts have limited seats available in order to keep everyone 6 feet apart, so make sure to get your tickets quickly!

3)     Volunteer.

While working in a box office is unlikely right now (at least without a mask!), there are many musical organizations that would appreciate your help in other ways. Be prepared to offer any skill set. Can you take photos of their venue? Could you offer to help with the Facebook live streaming at their next outdoor concert? Maybe you are a web designer and can offer to help improve their online presence.

Even if you are busy, there are ways to help with minimal time commitment. Leave a good review on the web, send staff your pictures from a concert of theirs you attended last year, or share the word among friends about an organization’s upcoming virtual concert season.

4)     Pick up a new instrument. . .

. . . Or your very first instrument! More time at home means more time for new hobbies, and learning to play a new instrument is always rewarding. Ask your local music store about renting an instrument, or dust off that trombone you bought for your kid’s band class that they no longer play. And eventually, if you find you are ready to get serious about learning, search your area for online lessons from local music teachers!

5)     Finally learn what that piece you love is called.

Let’s be honest. The world of Classical music is full of many famous composers, pieces, and different eras, and it can be hard to keep track of it all. Opus, BWVs, Hob. numbers, K. numbers . . . what does it all mean? There’s no better way to appreciate Classical music this month than by learning about it yourself. Check out this course, Intro to Classical Music for FREE online through Yale University.

6)     Make a financial contribution.

As you already know, many venues and organizations are unable to provide live concerts at this time. Without the income of ticket sales, these institutions are in need of donations to support their ongoing efforts. Many of these organizations, non-profits especially, rely entirely on donations and grants, so even the smallest contribution can help. Want to personally benefit from the donations you provide? Support local, and your favorite musicians will still be there for you in person after the pandemic! Consider a gift to Augustana Arts!

Supporting the arts during a pandemic is more important than ever, and luckily there are still plenty of ways to offer your help. Let us know below all of the ways YOU are looking forward to helping!