From March 26, all concerts – even if those reduced to accommodate less than 250 people with seats at one-metre apart – are either cancelled or postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic. But of course, the show must go on. Musicians around the world including Singapore are taking their shows offstage and online, allowing viewers to enjoy their "live" performances at the comfort (and safety) of their homes.
Joining the bandwagon is the Singapore Symphony Orchestra (SSO). SSO's The Spirit of Serenity was scheduled to perform at the Victoria Concert Hall on March 28. However, due to the temporary closure of the Concert Hall, ticketholders, including those of later events, were refunded. Keeping spirits high, the orchestra live-streamed its first concert without a live audience from the Concert Hall. The first free one-hour-long live video stream was broadcasted on both its YouTube and Facebook channels on March 28.
“This was my first livestream concert, and I’m glad to say I enjoyed every minute of it. I’d like to thank the SSO for this wonderful gift of music to the Singapore community and to the world in these difficult times. Many thanks especially to our healthcare workers for their courage and selflessness: please accept our heartfelt gratitude from all of us onstage tonight! A big ‘thank you’ too to all those who came online to join us in this special hour, without whose support and love the music would be meaningless!” says Singaporean conductor Darrell Ang.
If you've missed the live stream of The Spirit of Serenity, don't sweat. You can still watch the performance at any time for free on both its YouTube and Facebook channels. Other previous concerts such as Symphony in the Gardens: Gardens by the Bay are also available to watch. The SSO will announce future online concerts at a later date. Stay tuned.
