The bigger picture

@makingmusicuk

Over only three days in March, 883 (24%) Making Music members responded to our survey about the effects of the pandemic on music groups across the UK. Even though this was before the lockdown, 90% of respondents had had to cancel one or more events and almost all had already cancelled their regular weekly activity. Financial repercussions Members’ first concern was to minimise their losses on events, both imminent and further down the line. Often venues and other suppliers were understanding, and many events have instead been postponed, saving having to disburse cash, including on ticket refunds. The largest proportion of cancellation losses (55%) related to payments to professionals, mostly because members chose to continue (beyond contractual obligation) to pay the many musicians they engage. The suspension of regular activity (calculated till September) showed even more impact. Whilst MD fees accounted for 32% of losses, the largest proportion here related to the immediate and anticipated reduction in membership subscription income (51%) – either due to refunds or inability to collect if nothing was taking place. Altogether, we estimate our 3,675 members have lost £3.7m in respect of events and £5.1m in connection with regular activity. This equates to an average per group of around £2,400, but with a range from £0 to £65,000. These are major and, in some cases, life-threatening losses for groups which are generally self-funded and 70% of which have an annual income of below £14,500. Fears for the future So it was perhaps not surprising that groups’ biggest worry is that they may now lose members, and therefore fold. Short-term losses may be accommodated – but a reduction in subscription

income makes a group unsustainable in the long run. Social connections The survey included hundreds of comments, many of them very emotional, about the social value of groups for their members. The dread of isolation from their musical friends and family quickly emerged as a dominant theme after activity ceased. Making Music support We are really grateful to all members who took the time to complete the survey, especially at a time when they were no doubt under pressure in relation to their work and private lives, as well as their music group. Responses helped us to understand clearly that whilst practical guidance is appreciated (see p.14 for full details), members are also looking to Making Music for inspiration and tools to help them stay connected with their group, socially and musically, and to survive to enjoy another day. ‘We’ll Meet Again’ The next step, then, is to plan when and how ‘normal’ can resume. And to work out what to put in place in the meantime, to make sure your group returns not just as good as it was, but stronger and better. Can you turn this threat into an opportunity? Find all our resources at makingmusic.org.uk/resources

Not forgotten Unfortunately, we have already heard from groups who have lost members to the virus. If that has happened to your group and you would like to remember someone on the Making Music website on our new ‘In Memoriam’ page, please email us at info@makingmusic.org.uk with the person’s name, brief details (eg long-serving soprano, first bassoon etc.), their dates (eg 1942-2020), your group name and location.