Brass and Woodwind music, and singing allowed from Monday

25 February 2021

From Monday 1 March, singing, brass, and woodwind music will be allowed in outdoor settings only, for up to 10 adults. However, to support the educational wellbeing for students, the Minister for Health and Social Services reintroduced these activities for young people from Wednesday, 24 February, in both indoor and outdoor settings.

The new guidance, active from yesterday, for children and young people under 18, on singing, brass, and woodwind music allows up to 10 people, either outdoors or indoors, with a responsible adult present.

Deputy Medical Officer of Health, Dr Ivan Muscat said: “Islanders are reminded that physical distancing should be kept to two metres at all times, ventilation should be maximised indoors, no sessions should last longer than 30 minutes, and no alcohol should be consumed by adults during the sessions. When performing outdoors, spectators and crowds should be prevented.

“This guidance means the activities can take place safely with a reduced risk of COVID transmission, but the risk has not gone away. Islanders who are at higher risk should always consider any group activity in light of their personal risk of COVID-19, even if they have received a dose of the vaccine.”

The measures are the first in a staged approach to recommence musical activities. The Scientific Technical Advisory Cell (STAC) will assess any impact of these and other changes based on the latest COVID-19 data and will consider either relaxing or tightening restrictions accordingly.

Minister for Health and Social Services, Deputy Richard Renouf said: “We have reached a good point in our COVID-19 recovery for us to be able to relax these restrictions. Music plays an important role in many people’s wellbeing and social connectivity, so it is fantastic that we can give Islanders the chance to meet for this reason again.

“We will be reviewing the guidance frequently, against the latest data and it is hoped we can allow further easing of restrictions going forward. This past year has been tough on many children and young people and I’m sure it has been welcome news that music and singing can resume.”

Music that does not involve singing, brass or woodwind instruments, has not been advised against throughout the pandemic. Only that it should be kept at low volumes where others are present, to avoid the need for loud talking, shouting or people singing along.

Guidance for gatherings and events can be found online.