Pope to locked-down musicians: Don’t despair, just listen

Pope Francis today sent a message of hope to a conference on sacred music.

He said: ‘We know … that since the beginning of the COVID pandemic, activity in the musical field has been greatly reduced…

‘My thoughts are with all those who have been affected: the musicians who have seen their lives and professions disrupted by the demands of distancing; those who have lost their jobs and social contact; those who have had to face, in difficult contexts, the necessary moments of training, education and community life. Many have dedicated significant efforts to continue to offer a musical service endowed with new creativity.’

He went on to say: ‘A good musician knows the value of silence, the value of the pause. The alternation between sound and silence is fruitful and allows for listening, which plays a fundamental role in every dialogue.

‘Dear musicians, the common challenge is to listen to each other.’