Everyday reality has dramatically changed for everyone over the past month and conversation refers to the ‘new normal’ and what that will look like when we emerge from lockdown.
Keeping our intellect active and remaining emotionally and artistically stimulated during lockdown is key to surviving. There is plenty of advice, support, and shared concern for our physical welfare and mental health. Despite the lockdown and social distancing, there are moments when the nation comes together; every Thursday at 8PM, we clap for essential workers, others have come together to support the charitable cause of Captain Tom Moore, some enjoyed the Queen’s broadcast and many of us watch the government’s updates in the evenings.
Many of us have also faced challenging personal experiences such as hearing that a loved one is sick or even just feeling fear knowing that a relative is vulnerable. I saw a photo on social media of my sister, who is a nurse, ready in her personal protective equipment (PPE) for a shift on a Coronavirus ward and I felt a jolt through my body.
It’s imperative that we seek ways to not just survive, but to thrive in this unprecedented time. I don’t mean that one should emerge from lockdown, now able to speak a new language, or playing a new musical instrument, but just to survive is to thrive. We can now ponder on the beauty of life, to appreciate it and learn to better take care of ourselves emotionally and physically, and this is all that’s necessary.
That said, it’s art and music that so often provide the vehicle to illuminate our brain function and to stimulate creativity, and if this is the case for you, don’t lose it once the socio-economic and political worlds recover. Listening to music is a great boost, whether you escape through your AirPods or share your playlist with others; singing is a great breathing exercise and a relaxing thing to do with the release of endorphins which will have a positive effect on your mood.
All entertainment hubs from concerts to theatres are temporarily closed and the industry is responding by hosting free, online shows such as Lady Gaga’s One World Concert and others are keeping us engaged via living room streams.
For those aspiring to join the industry, how the sector emerges and when, is uncertain, however, this is all part of the creative journey, and one which the college supports. At the London College of Creative Media (LCCM) all our young creatives challenge themselves musically, and promote their efforts through social media to unleash their creativity under lockdown, check them out;
https://www.instagram.com/p/B-NOwULhZQD/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet
From innovative ideas exploring new digital platforms, to teaching via online software, recording daily journals and writing musical sketches of their lockdown experiences, LCCM students are laying the foundation for self-expression and inventiveness for our ‘new normal’.
During times of uncertainty, the positive and forceful power of music and art remains certain. We encourage all fellow musicians to stay streaming, keep listening, keep laughing and continue to share music online. Many of our students are posting covers of their favourite tracks on social media and streaming videos of them rocking out on their guitars to singing acapella. From original songs on the piano, live gigs, industry podcasts and music jamming sessions, they have vowed to stay creative as they continue to produce ‘Quarantine Art – Quart’ amidst the pandemic.
All performances need an audience, and if you are reading this and reflecting on your own health and wellbeing, and of those close to you, remember that music is a fantastic way of connecting people. For all music lovers and curious audiences out there, this is a great time to explore new music and discover new talent.
Written by Dr Simon Jones, Principal of London College of Creative Media