Detailed measures have been agreed and published following discussions between government officials and singing teachers.
Although singing and the use of woodwind or brass instruments in lessons or performances by the general public remain ‘strongly’ discouraged, the new guidelines allow for these types of music in schools and colleges.
The guidance, published on the gov.je website, outlines procedures for distancing and enhanced hygiene measures, including the cleaning of instruments.
Teacher and voice coach Nicki Kennedy, who said last month that singers had been ‘demonised’ by the initial guidelines for Level 1 of Jersey’s exit strategy, said she was pleased with the development.
‘A lot of work has gone into this, and it’s really encouraging that the doorway has been opened,’ she said. ‘We can now mitigate against risk factors and take appropriate measures to make lessons and practice sessions as safe as possible.’
Ms Kennedy said that achieving a more flexible, but still low-risk, approach for schools had been a priority as the new autumn term began.
‘Children have been through a stressful time and those for whom singing is “their thing” will see benefits to their mental health through being able to take a step towards normality,’ she said.
The hope among the Island’s music community is that opportunities may become available outside of school settings, Ms Kennedy added.
‘We hope to continue the dialogue and find additional ways of moving forward,’ she said.
Uncertainty about when choirs will be able to rehearse and perform together means that Ms Kennedy and her husband, John Bowley, the head of music at Jersey College for Girls, will continue to work with the Aureole Choir.
Formed during the early stages of lockdown, the Aureole performers will soon begin collaborating on a festive project that may also involve linking up with counterparts from Guernsey and the Isle of Man.
