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Challenge #4: Music In Isolation

 

Introduction:

We are living in extraordinary times.

An era which will be remembered in history when time stood still and we were forced to stand apart...isolated.

Yet, while we are separated, musicians and artists have been inspired to come together (virtually) and produce music…and these collaborations exemplify the tenacity and creativity of the human spirit.

The Activity:

Your task is to create a chart which catalogues selections of the extraordinary music which is being created in this moment in time.

Share your findings with the hashtag: #musicinisolation

Materials Needed:

  • Pencil or Pen

  • Paper

  • Access to Internet (Youtube, Spotify, etc.)

 

Instructions:

STEP 1: Locate an example of music created in isolation
Examples of key search terms are "virtual choir", "quarantine edition" or "stay at home edition".

STEP 2: Listen to the recording with a critical ear
Is this a recording which will stand the test of time?

What qualities make this recording stand out to you?
Write down all of your ideas!

STEP 3: Annotate your selections in your table

This next step is very important as it gives the piece context in history.

What is the rationale behind the recording?

Why was this music created?

Who created it?

Was there cause or fundraising goal?

Be sure to add this to your description of the recording.

STEP 4: Share your findings!
The next step is crucial - you need to share your findings with others! Share this incredible music and this remarkable period in musical history.

As inspiration for your challenge, I am sharing the start of my own list:

Ottawa Bach Choir: O Canada

Director, Lisette Canton, leads the Ottawa Bach Choir in the singing of our national anthem in support of the movement: #canadatogether 
Notable fact: 4th person from the left (middle row) is our Governor General, Julie Payette

Michael Bublé, The Barenaked Ladies & Sofia Reyes:

Gotta Be Patient

Canadian musicians Michael Bublé, Barenaked Ladies, and Sofia Reyes came together to perform “Gotta Be Patient” as part of the Stronger Together, Tous Ensemble broadcast, which raised funds for Food Bank Canada amid the ongoing novel coronavirus pandemic and in support of frontline workers.

ArtistsCAN: Lean on Me

A Canadian initiative which supported the Canadian Emergencies & COVID-19 Response Fund.

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