Updated COVID-19 Guidance on Non-professional Ukulele Groups Playing Live
A bit academic for Low Fell Ukes at the moment due to Local Lockdown but others may find helpful.
Live performance by Non-Professional Ukulele Groups in England (Thanks to the Musicians’ Union guidance)
- How are ‘professional’ and ‘non-professional’ musicians defined in the Government's Performing Arts guidance? ‘Professional’ musicians are defined as those who are performing for work purposes – this is true across all of the devolved Nations. By default ‘Non-Professional musicians are those who are not performing for work purposes.
- Can indoor live performances take place everywhere? No - indoor live performances are still not permitted in areas of local lockdown in England, in nightclubs in England, or anywhere in the devolved Nations. This obviously applies to the North East until we are told otherwise.
Can amateur groups start rehearsing and performing again? In England – yes, the Government’s Performing Arts guidance applies to both professionals and non-professionals.
The guidance confirms there are no set limits on the numbers who can be involved in planned non-professional activity taking place outside and/or in a Covid-secure venue, but that attendees must be able to split into sub-groups of six without mingling. On top of this, organisations must ensure an appropriate Covid-19 risk assessment is carried out and that the number of individuals involved are able to be socially distanced at all times.
Organisers should review the guidance in full and ensure any planned activity is compliant before it goes ahead.
- Is live music allowed in pubs and bars? In England – Yes, the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) has confirmed that live music can take place in pubs and bars as long as the Government’s Performing Arts guidelines are followed. The ‘Rule of Six’ in England will impact on non-professional performers working in Covid-19 secure venues like gig venues, concert halls and pubs if they are following the published guidance.
- Should a musician be required to wear a face covering when performing in a venue such as a restaurant or bar? In England it’s now a legal requirement, so the simple answer to that is yes. You can read detailed guidance on mask wearing in England on the Government’s website. Singers can use other mitigations – greater distance and/or screens for example when performing – but when not performing they would need to use a mask.
- Does the Rule of Six in England apply to audiences? Yes, it does. The current guidance relating to audience attendance at music events in England is available on the Government’s website.
- What is the guidance for charity concerts? Both professional and non-professional groups can perform at charity concerts in England, provided the Government's Performing Arts guidance is followed. Section 3 of the guidance is specifically dedicated to 'Managing Performances' and deals with topics like audience management, venue capacity, toilet facilities, staging, entrances and exits. Concert organisers should ensure a full COVID-19 risk assessment is completed in relation to the event and that the relevant guidance is adhered to.
- Where can I find the research about singing? Information about the research is included in the Introduction section of the Government’s Performing Arts guidelines.