Today’s blog title is from Dorothy Thompson, an American journalist and broadcaster, who in 1939 was recognised by Time magazine as being in equal influence to Eleanor Roosevelt.

Influence is an interesting topic. I was recently contacted by a company suggesting that after reading my blog I was an ‘influencer’. I found the concept interesting, although I didn’t entirely agree with their assessment. I write not to influence, but to share my thoughts and feelings. Perhaps you think these should be private, but in sharing it helps me, so in many ways it is a selfish activity. I have to admit that having restarted the blogging the reach has extended and the statistics tell me my blog is read in 18 countries! Who would have thought that!

The last few weeks have been difficult as the realisation that the current situation of home-working will continue for sometime yet. Although there have been opportunities and I am grateful to have connected so much better with the individuals in my choirs…..and yes even more than I would in weekly rehearsal. We have also connected in different ways too and this has brought a greater sense of belonging.

Of course the one thing we want to do is sing together again, to hear the harmonies, to hear real voices again. This can only resume when it is safe to do so and the research and guidance tells us that. But we have started to talk about a ‘new’ way of rehearsing and this is positive. I have seen conflicting sides emerge, especially in social media posts, but I believe passionately that we must not be polarised in our opinion. The choral world needs us to be united and to speak as one.

I was angry last week at witnessing seemingly irresponsible crowds celebrating in Leeds; my anger was because I wasn’t allowed to do what I wanted to do and yet some felt compelled to put their lives at risk. However, thankfully we have not seen the reported spikes as a result of protests, celebrations, trips to the beach; so maybe they were justified?

Professional musicians need to earn a living and that is why they are back performing, although with significant restrictions. I completely understand that! For those of us who have chosen to lead amateur musical groups, well it is a different story and we are still finding ways to be innovative on-line; and there are sadly some who have no means of earning a living at all. The answer is not an easy one and I know that, but it doesn’t make it any less painful.

I sound negative, but I am not, just frustrated and yet I have found so much positivity in the past 4 months and it will continue for sure. Hearing the wonderful orchestra of Opera North playing live together for the first time since lockdown must have been emotional for them! I am still to have that day, but it will come.