Ban on singing is not rooted in science, say choirmasters

BRITAIN’S leading choirmasters and conductors have criticised the ban on singing in churches as based on “assumptions, not science” as they urge ministers to reverse the veto.

James O’Donnell, organist and master of the choristers at Westminster Abbey, has written to Caroline Dinenage, minister for digital and culture, warning that “the survival of one of our nation’s cultural treasures” depends on guidelines concerning choral singing.

The letter, co-signed by almost 30 conductors and choirmasters, said: “It is possible to avert disaster if the appropriate steps are taken now.

“Is it considered that a group of workers numbering more than six, at 2m distance from each other in an unventilated office, poses less of a risk than a group of singers performing in a well ventilated venue with the same social distancing?

“We urgently need guidance setting out general principles to enable choirs and choruses to undertake their own detailed risk assessments. We need advice based on scientific evidence, not conjecture, anecdote or supposition.”

They also warned that the financial difficulty in which many singers and choral directors now find themselves is “acute”, meaning that “there is no doubt that some high-profile ensembles will not survive this crisis”.

The calls come as yesterday places of worship reopened to the public, with social distancing measures in place.

Current government guidance says that singing and playing instruments – with the exception of the church organ – should be avoided. Public Health

‘We urgently need ... advice based on scientific evidence, not conjecture, anecdote and supposition’

England (PHE) scientists are looking into testing if it is safe for congregations to sing. They will measure spray and spittle of Salisbury Cathedral singers to test the safety of singing.

Dr Simon Tanner, a PHE senior medical adviser, added: “PHE is leading on a small study with adult male choir singers from Salisbury Cathedral to gain a better understanding of droplet transmission produced by singers.”

The Department for Culture, Media and Sport has also commissioned scientists to research the dangers.