Zooming along: July/August 2020 Editorial

Corresponding via videolink from the comfort of our own homes is not without its challenges. Once you've secured the perfect bookish backdrop (Ian Rankin for Nicola Sturgeon; brightly coloured Penguin clothbound classics for the Duchess of Cambridge), there's always the risk that a family member, room-mate or pet might stop by unannounced. We all live in fear of inadvertently recreating that moment when professor Robert Kelly was explaining Korean politics to the nation, only to be interrupted by a surprise visit from his young daughter. Less adorable was the recent broadcast from Trinny Woodall (of Trinny and Susannah fame), which went viral after her partner Charles Saatchi appeared in the background – naked.

As we move out of lockdown and into ‘stay-alert’ social-distancing territory, it's time to reflect on some lessons learned and move forward into the ‘new normal’. This issue, we look at the impact of the crisis on the sector, examine the positive changes that new approaches may have had (see page 37) and highlight the support available (p. 14). We also round up the best kit out there to help music-making at home, ensuring minimum fallout with family members and neighbours (p. 18).

The mosaic video montage is becoming as ubiquitous as the carefully curated bookshelves. These patchwork pieces weave together separate contributions and when done well, they can be extremely effective. One superb example appeared in my inbox, created by flautist Chris Hill, who has arranged and recorded a new version of Zycanthos for flute choir – with him playing all the parts (https://tinyurl.com/y7ar298y).

This technique is useful for remote ensemble work, as seen during the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain's recent online campaign for performances of Jupiter from Holst's The Planets. Groups such as Lister Violins recorded their own individual parts that were then spliced into one film, so that it appeared as though the melodic line was ‘passed’ among the violinists. (You can post your own videos under #NYOMusicalPlanet.) If, like me, you're feeling a little underqualified when it comes to video editing, MT's technology correspondent Tim Hallas has some tips on p. 42.

Do share your efforts with us – contact details are on p. 6.