The Singapore Symphony has taken the unusual step of issuing an international appeal on its website to save it from insolvency.

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused the Singapore Symphony Orchestra revenue, donation and sponsorships losses of more than S$1.5 million.
Since March, cancellations of concerts in view of public advisories have resulted in a loss of S$450,000 in ticket revenue. The orchestra also had to call off its annual fundraising gala in April, while corporate sponsorships and donations plummeted due to the uncertain economic outlook.
A local appeal was made a month ago. So far, it has raised just $75,000.

Scientists at the Charité in Berlin have issued a 13-page paper, at the request of seven orchestras, advising the distances to be observed in rehearsal and performance for the forseeable future.

Briefly, it’s 1.5 metres between the seats of string players, 2 metres between winds.

The conductor should observe at least 1.5 metres from the nearest player.

The recommendations were provided at the request of the Berlin Philharmonic, DSO, Konzerthaus Orchestra, Orchestra of the German Opera and Komische Oper, Radio Symphony Orchestra and Berlin Staatskapelle.