The Impact of COVID-19 On Music Concerts

Everything from carnivals to music festivals has been canceled due to COVID-19. Many of these festivals mark the opening of festival season and the summer for many Canadians. It is clear that a lot has changed and will continue to change as cities begin to reopen. This is sure to be a summer unlike any other.
 
Many major city-led events, cultural programs, and conferences have already been canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, through June 30. This would also include the popular Caribbean Carnival, and Pride parades; which typically attract thousands. Calgary Stampede organizers have canceled this yard annual rodeo and exhibition. In Ottawa, this year's bombastic Canada Day celebration will be a virtual show.
 
Edmonton and Winnipeg are known for their folk festivals but unfortunately, they have also been canceled. This means that it is likely that fairs throughout Canada will also be canceled. This sounds like the makings of a very boring summer. However, it is better than the alternative, which is more deaths due to exposure due to the lifting of restrictions too soon.
 
Those living in the city look forward to spending time in the pool, at the park, and playgrounds. The closures create a cultural shit, unlike anything that Canadians have seen before. The long winters make the anticipation of summer more appealing.
 
The summer is a festival season in Canada and creates not only cultural value but also significant financial losses. It also affects the restaurant and tourism sectors. Many people are suffering in silence and simply waiting for the day that they can once again, here the sound of music.
 
Thankfully, some find it impossible to express themselves without music. This has led to a movement across the world, which has resulted in many musicians holding virtual concerts. Everyone from Lady Gaga, John Legend, Coldplay's frontrunner, Chris Martin, Keith Urban, Pink, Jan Arden, Natalia MacMaster, Rob Thomas, and more have held virtual concerts.
 
Social distancing is undoubtedly difficult for many but it is equally as difficult and frustrating for the thousands of musicians who just want to entertain. Even though many musicians have had to cancel their tour dates, they still feel compelled to entertain.
 
Many local musicians are also going live and CBC music is finding out who they are. Keep up with the many musicians who are contributing to the movement by following @CBCMusic on Twitter.
 
Music is universal, which is probably why it stirs up so many emotions. You can listen to practically any type of music that you want to from your favorite musicians simply by logging onto your computer, which is probably something that you do every day anyway.
 
Now that you are already online, just search for local virtual concerts and you’re sure to see a line-up that will appeal to you. If you’re not satisfied with what we have to offer locally, then look for national virtual concerts. The music will do on!