Sarah Talbot

As I write this post, the restrictions imposed on society in Australia are being relaxed, and we are able to venture outside into the sunlight. It has been a tumultuous year, and it is not likely that it will be ever forgotten.

A side effect of isolation and restrictions has given rise to the occurrence of depression and anxiety. I, myself, am no exception. With the forced cancellations of performances, with further restrictions on singing and choirs (due to the nature of the COVID-19 virus spreading faster when airborne), I have seen my social life pretty much disappear, and question others to when or how the world can go back to some normalcy (highly unlikely)

The virtual world has also gotten a kick into the 21st century with many aspects of technology moving to provide access to people, the ability to work from home, online schooling, and up-to-date information. Using these technologies, as was able to keep myself busy…even in the little box of a studio / office.

Sound Surfing on Spotify

Found some good stuff by browsing the Spotify. I have quite eclectic tastes and like all sorts of music. I found upbeat stuff to keep energy going, and danced around the house…like no one was watching. I found some calming stuff to help go to sleep during those long periods of lying in bed, staring up at the ceiling. Old stuff, new stuff, weird stuff…One of my favourite finds was “Fall on Me” sung by Matteo and Andre Botticelli. I like the swaying motion that the music has, and the lyrics are quite touching, and resounding to me.

Reading

Having time at home allowed me to do some reading. I’m wanting to do more composing and sound mixing. Thought it was high time to delve into the music ‘biz’ and get some insight into operations. I’ve dabbled with the production and recording software, but really want to get into the ‘nitty-gritty’. So my reading list…

• Me – Elton John
• Start and Run Your Own Record Label – Daylle Deanna Schwartz
• Working in the Music Industry – Anna Britten
• The Music Industry – Patrik Wikstrom
• Beyond Talent – Angela Myles Beeching
• Home Recording For Dummies
• Logic Pro X for Dummies

Virtual Projects

Craving the need to make music with others, I went searching for virtual choirs and bands. Eric Whitacre had launched Virtual Choir 6 in response to the isolation around the world, so I jumped on that bandwagon. I also created a few virtual opportunities for various organisations that I am connected with. Even made my own virtual choir.

Social Media Goddess

Before the pandemic, I managed the social media aspects for Brisbane Chorale ( A choral group whom I volunteer). The cancellations of the 2020 season and isolation, made maintaining social media content for not only members but the the general public. Trying to keep music groups in the eye of audiences when there are no performances is not an easy feat.

Arrange and Publish Music

I recently discovered SMP Press, an online entity that allows people to arrange and publish sheet music. They also hold licenses to already published songs, which musicians can then arrange for groups, solos…basically whatever context they want. This is a great way to keep the music / score reading and writing skills sharp.

See? Just a few ways to keep busy during a pandemic…