Support during the pandemic
Locally, Classical Sheffield members responded to the pandemic in a variety of ways, from supportive communication to ambitious virtual performances and recordings, and everything in between.
We set up this area of our website to help music-makers navigate their way through all the guidance and advice about how to operate during the pandemic, and to share ideas and resources.
The Most Recent Advice on Rehearsals and Performances – April 2022
From 1 April all legal restrictions were removed. The government published a ‘Living with COVID’ document, which makes clear that:
- Individuals do not have to self-isolate after a positive test
- There are no free lateral flow test for the general public (except some vulnerable groups)
- Face coverings are not required in public places (excepts some health and care settings)
- Organisations do not have to do Covid specific risk assessment, but are expected to consider Covid risk as part of a wider risk assessment.
Covid risks do of course still remain and the ‘Living with COVID’ framework implies that groups will reduce or refine Covid precautions rather than removing them altogether. Legal requirements have been removed, but groups still need to provide a safe environment and consider how to reduce the spread of the virus.
The previous ‘Events and Attractions’ guidance has been replaced by the more general Reducing the spread of respiratory infections, including COVID-19, in the workplace.
Making Music has written some detailed Living with Covid – rehearsals guidance to help groups operate within the new strategic framework and operate safely as restrictions are removed.
Making Music / Resources / Can My Group Get Back In Person
Useful resources produced during the pandemic
- Safeguarding do’s and dont’s
- Summary of Government advice about the Performing Arts
- Managing the return to rehearsals
- Managing performances
- Return to choir roadmap example
- Covid-19 life at a glance
Websites and Advice
- Making Music
Most member groups are also members of Making Music, a charity that provides resources, help and support to music groups across the country. Making Music provides a wealth of resources relating to Covid-19, in a members-only area, so you will need to know the user name and password connected with your choir, orchestra or ensemble. - Reducing the Spread of Respiratory Viruses Advice from the Government, updated April 2022.
- Living with Covid Guidance document from Government, published April 2022.
- Performing Arts Guidance from the Government (updated 17 August 2021)
Original guidance for people who work in performing arts, including arts organisations, venue operators and participants. - Guidance on the coronavirus for charities
Guidance to help with running your charity during the coronavirus outbreak. - Guidance from NCVO
Covid-19 guidance from NCVO, which helps voluntary organisations across the country. - Covid-19 advice from Voluntary Action Sheffield
VAS has provided support and leadership for the voluntary sector for over 90 years. They help groups to focus their energy on making a difference with people.