The pandemic has affected everyone in different ways. It's uncertainty brings unpredictable waves as variants and vaccines both seem to duke it out. When the pandemic brought about shut downs in March of 2020, live music was with no exception cancelled. Musicians everywhere, from local artists to global superstars, had to cancel any and all live events. Bands and musical groups could no not always meet to practice in person. Tours and shows were canceled, much to the disappointment of artists and fans. As the world began to open up again, it seemed live music was in the cards to be a possibility again. Concerts began again, with venues filling up with artists. Artists announce tours and music festivals are in the work. Things seemed to be going in a positive direction, until late 2021. The Omicron variant seemed to once again stick a wrench in the hearts of music lovers everywhere. Just last night, Adele gave a tearful speech announcing the postponement of her Las Vegas Residency. Even the Grammys, though not actually live music, have been postponed.
Though we see the direct effects of how widely famous musicians are affected, it's important to consider both independent and local artists. UCI’s Open Jam is an event held by the school’s musicians in which every week, students meet up to perform any and all music. With the recent surge of Omicron cases, Open jam has been fully online. Some students feel, however, that the pandemic and virtual music is not so bad.
“I actually felt more confident doing online open mics,” said first year vocalist Ananya Kishbap, “because this is my first time doing any. Doing them without an actual audience helped me build up the courage, and when we went in person, it was slightly less nerve wracking than if I'd never done the online ones.”
First year Rollins Benson is a guitarist. He explains that he also found it easier to play music during the pandemic stating that, “While back home, the pandemic gave me plenty of time to play, the opposite has been true in dorms. It has made me feel more lackluster about playing in general, and that I have hit a plateau.”
To many, the pandemic has created its own set of challenges for musicians. Some UCI students, however, would argue that it allows for more freedom and flexibility. Though not ideal, many can find they have utilized this time to their advantage. Lee McElligot, fourth year guitarist, explains that, “The process of making and playing music went more in the direction of practicing and recording due to the lack of live performances.”
As UCI makes plans to return in person, hopefully so can live music. Students seem to have taken this time at home to practice and it’s now time for them to showcase their music.
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