Your one stop shop for all things Covid / choir related
This page is for active Dulcetones (those who have signed up for in-person choir sessions) during these........... strange times.
Please make sure you are 100% familiar with the very important things we each need to do to keep each other safe, have a browse through the FAQs and if there's anything you need to know that's not covered here, don't hesitate to get in touch.
This information has been updated on 2nd December to reflect the new Tier based guidelines, and applies from Thursday 3rd December in Wagner Hall.
Please make sure you are 100% familiar with the very important things we each need to do to keep each other safe, have a browse through the FAQs and if there's anything you need to know that's not covered here, don't hesitate to get in touch.
This information has been updated on 2nd December to reflect the new Tier based guidelines, and applies from Thursday 3rd December in Wagner Hall.
Are we still allowed to have in-person choir practice?
In short, YES! This massively depends on whether the group has a Covid-secure venue (we do) and has carried out a full risk assessment (we have) that details how we will manage risk mitigation (maintaining one way systems, distancing, use of masks, limiting numbers, ventilation etc).
This risk assessment has been updated to ensure it is compatible with the newest government guidelines, and is available here.
Very little has changed from the first time around in terms of our plan, as we were already going beyond the minimum recommendations at the time (eg. wearing masks, limiting singing time to 60 mins), as per the best available science.
For more info, a good summary of the incredibly convoluted Government guidelines - especially as they relate to The Dulcetones and choirs in general - can be found on the Association of British Chorlal Directors website.
This risk assessment has been updated to ensure it is compatible with the newest government guidelines, and is available here.
Very little has changed from the first time around in terms of our plan, as we were already going beyond the minimum recommendations at the time (eg. wearing masks, limiting singing time to 60 mins), as per the best available science.
For more info, a good summary of the incredibly convoluted Government guidelines - especially as they relate to The Dulcetones and choirs in general - can be found on the Association of British Chorlal Directors website.
What are the main things I need to personally do? Gimme the headlines Sarah, I'm busy.
1. Make sure you're fully signed up as an ACTIVE Dulcetone (via contact page if you haven't already). This is essential for Test and Trace, even though it's been a pain in the bum and I'm still using gmail to make sure I reach you.
2. Don't forget your mask!
3. Research suggests the biggest risk factor here is in breaking the cardinal social distancing rules. You'll find a clear one-way system into the venue and your spots will be marked out to help you maintain your distance during rehearsal. It is SUPER IMPORTANT that you maintain your distance at all times - especially on arrival and leaving - and don't decend into hugs / snogs / licks before and after rehearsal, as tempting as that will undoubtedly be!
4. Make sure you sign in with one of my Dulce-babes (even if you're late) as we need to keep an accurate register every week.
5. PLEASE DO NOT ATTEND if you (or anyone in your household) has Covid-19 symptoms, a positive test, or have been asked to isolate by Test and Trace. Please refer to the most recent governemnt guidelines if you are in any way unsure.
Government guidelines - Covid-19 Stay at Home Guidance
2. Don't forget your mask!
3. Research suggests the biggest risk factor here is in breaking the cardinal social distancing rules. You'll find a clear one-way system into the venue and your spots will be marked out to help you maintain your distance during rehearsal. It is SUPER IMPORTANT that you maintain your distance at all times - especially on arrival and leaving - and don't decend into hugs / snogs / licks before and after rehearsal, as tempting as that will undoubtedly be!
4. Make sure you sign in with one of my Dulce-babes (even if you're late) as we need to keep an accurate register every week.
5. PLEASE DO NOT ATTEND if you (or anyone in your household) has Covid-19 symptoms, a positive test, or have been asked to isolate by Test and Trace. Please refer to the most recent governemnt guidelines if you are in any way unsure.
Government guidelines - Covid-19 Stay at Home Guidance
What happens if someone tests positive after they've been to choir?
We'll work with the Test and Trace service and follow their guidance to the letter. Records will be kept for a minimum of 21 days and I'll be taking a photograph of each rehearsal so we know who stood where. I know this sounds distinctly un-relaxing but hopefully by now we're all used to this from everywhere we go! I will also provide a Test and Trace QR code that you can scan if you're using the official app if you would like to, but it's not madatory to use the app as I will be keeping nerd-level records for this very purpose. No-one who should be isolating will be in attendance, and we'll all be wearing masks and keeping our distance (albeit not emotionally).
If that someone is you, please contact me straight away (we'll go straight to Test and Trace and it will be anonymous so do not fret my loves).
Full info from NHS website
If that someone is you, please contact me straight away (we'll go straight to Test and Trace and it will be anonymous so do not fret my loves).
Full info from NHS website
What's the plan for the rest of term?
It's all about Ding Dong, Dulcetones..
We'll be rehearsing and collaboratively tweaking our Christmas single on 3rd December and recording and filming on Thursday 10th December (don't forget your festive choiriform).
Then we have a bonus rehearsal on Thursday 17th December 6.15pm - 8pm. I'll email the details. It will be brilliant.
We'll be rehearsing and collaboratively tweaking our Christmas single on 3rd December and recording and filming on Thursday 10th December (don't forget your festive choiriform).
Then we have a bonus rehearsal on Thursday 17th December 6.15pm - 8pm. I'll email the details. It will be brilliant.
How will I hear what's going on if we're so spread out and everyone's in masks?
In Wagner Hall, I'll be directing from the stage and using a madonna mic so everyone will be able to hear clearly. Those at the back will be on the raised seating so you won't feel disconnected. Singing in masks at a distance will take some getting used to and we'll be easing in very gently. The acoustics in the room are great and your sexy leopard print bespoke singers' masks will make a huge difference.
What about lyric sheets?
You won't need any, thanks to a giant screen and a projector. Hands free, yo.
Will it still be fun?
HELL YES!
More questions?
Links
Government guidelines - Working Safely During Coronavirus - Performing Arts
Association of British Choral Directors (ABCD) - Guidance
Association of British Choral Directors (ABCD) - Guidance
