Social distancing and choral singing during the Covid-19 pandemic: challenges and vocal symptoms of chorists

Abstract

ABSTRACT Purpose To analyze the perception of choristers who perform online rehearsals about symptoms, vocal disadvantages, adaptations in the singing routine and difficulties in rehearsals during social distancing due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Method Application of an online questionnaire investigating perceptions about the voice and singing routine and rehearsal of 141 choristers who did not have COVID-19 disease and continued in remote activity until April 2021. Participants were divided in two groups according to the age: G1 (18 to 54 years old) and G2 (55 years old or more). The data underwent descriptive and inferential analysis, considering a significance level of 5%. Results During distancing, both groups reported a decrease in singing time and felt more difficult to sing alone. Choir singers reported fewer throat infections during this period. Choir singers from G1 noticed a huskier voice, reported difficulty concentrating via videoconferencing, felt nervous to singing alone in virtual rehearsals and stressed recording the same song several times. G2 choristers reported more physical vocal symptoms such as: tired voice, varying throughout the day, and a weaker and more breathy voice. Conclusion In social distancing, the choristers found it more difficult to sing by videoconference and had reduced singing practice time. Younger choir singers reported more emotional symptoms and older choir singers reported more vocal symptoms.