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Southern Delaware Chorale cancels 2020 holiday concert

September 11, 2020

The Southern Delaware Chorale has been a part of the Sussex County arts scene for more than 30 years, providing quality choral performances to audiences of all ages.

As with choral organizations around the world, the COVID-19 pandemic has negatively impacted SDC’s gathering ability to rehearse safely and perform the choral music members and audiences all love.

By its very nature, choral singing is a social activity that requires large groups to gather in small spaces to sing in one voice. Unfortunately, studies continue to reveal the dangers of aerosol droplet emissions while singing.

One such study from Colorado State University said performance artists are likely to display forced-air breathing, more like sneezing and coughing, while they are singing. Another study found that infectious aerosolized particles may be transmitted as far as 13 feet from the individual.

This has been a very difficult time for the entire Southern Delaware Chorale organization. It suspended activities in March, canceling all spring rehearsals and the Sounds of Silver Screen & Stage concert slated for May 3.

As the chorale has many singers who are senior citizens and many with pre-existing conditions, the board of directors and artistic staff have concluded that conditions remain unsafe for gathering in large numbers for rehearsals.

Because leadership cares greatly for the health and well-being of its membership and audiences, the 2020 holiday season concert has been canceled. All decisions are based on science and facts to protect all involved.

At this time, the board anticipates rehearsals may begin again in January 2021 if it is deemed safe to do so by medical experts. January’s rehearsals will help the chorale prepare for its next performance, Sounds of Silver Screen & Stage, in May 2021.

For more information and updates on all future events, go to www.southerndelawarechorale.org. The board extends thanks to all who have supported the chorale in the past and continue to do so in the future, and wishes for all to be safe, be kind and be well.

 

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