Coronavirus

BGuttman · by **BGuttman** » 2020-03-11 6:45 p.m.

Given the great pandemonium about Coronavirus (Covid-19) it appears many events we are involved in are going to be affected.

I'm curious to see what has been happening in the community.

Massachusetts, New York, and Washington State have declared emergencies. Have any of you experienced concert changes or cancellations?

My orchestra (Merrimack Valley Philharmonic) has a concert scheduled for May 17 and we are starting to consider whether we will need to cancel or reschedule.

norbie2018 · by **norbie2018** » 2020-03-11 6:53 p.m.

Our concert band in Madison Wisconsin rehearses at a retirement community, but for the time being we've had to find another location. All our concerts are in Assisted Living centers in retirement communities and we're just waiting for the other shoe to drop.

Burgerbob · by **Burgerbob** » 2020-03-11 7:06 p.m.

Had two solid weeks of gigs cancelled already. Not excited to see what Disneyland and LA Phil do in the near future.

bigbandbone · by **bigbandbone** » 2020-03-11 7:09 p.m.

I'm down in SW Florida right now and already some venues are talking about canceling gigs due to CORVID19. Anyone else seeing the same thing?

JohnL · by **JohnL** » 2020-03-11 7:11 p.m.

The Claremont Symphony here in SoCal has had to "indefinitely postpone" an upcoming concert because the college where their performance venue is located is cancelling all public events through at least April 18th. Several colleges and universities in the area are suspending "face-to-face" instruction (with exceptions for classes that just don't work online). It's a precautionary measure; none of the schools have had any cases of the disease as yet (and they want to keep it that way).

FullPedalTrombonist · by **FullPedalTrombonist** » 2020-03-11 7:18 p.m.

My Seattle venue cancelled a lot of shows. SXSW in Austin is cancelled. And another Austin event in July looks like it will close

cmcslide · by **cmcslide** » 2020-03-11 7:35 p.m.

My university has extended our spring break. That would effectively cancel any concerts happening during the extra week off. My understanding is that there are a lot of other universities doing the same thing. I haven't heard of any other cancellations here in my town yet...

BGuttman · by **BGuttman** » 2020-03-11 8:03 p.m.

I merged two topics related to Coronavirus.

StevenC · by **StevenC** » 2020-03-11 8:12 p.m.

The college where my orchestra is based has been surprisingly quiet on the subject. I will continue to go to rehearsals until something changes. My daughter's college will be starting their spring break early, and may well go fully online after the break. I'm not sure how much that will help the conservatory students.

Bach5G · by **Bach5G** » 2020-03-11 8:34 p.m.

Two takeaways from a medical expert on CNN this evening:

1. Cancel everything

2. Panic

norbie2018 · 2020-03-11 8:40 p.m.

So this is the guy Joe Rogan had on his podcast yesterday: Michael Osterholm

Here are his props:

...an internationally recognized expert in infectious disease epidemiology. He is Regents Professor, McKnight Presidential Endowed Chair in Public Health, the director of the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy (CIDRAP), Distinguished Teaching Professor in the Division of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, a professor in the Technological Leadership Institute, College of Science and Engineering, and an adjunct professor in the Medical School, all at the University of Minnesota.

He stated in the next three months 90 million plus cases of coronavirus, over 40 million hospitalizations, and nearly 500,000 deaths. That's in the U.S. alone.

Watch it yourself: <YOUTUBE id="E3URhJx0NSw">https://youtu.be/E3URhJx0NSw</YOUTUBE>

Bach5G · by **Bach5G** » 2020-03-11 9:09 p.m.

I’m listening to Trump’s speech. It sounds like he’s coming down with something.

RConrad · by **RConrad** » 2020-03-11 9:39 p.m.

My university here in Chicago just cancelled all events after the 13th which potentially includes the concert for my band on Sunday. Going further classes will be all online by the 23rd without a date for when in person instruction will resume.

BGuttman · by **BGuttman** » 2020-03-11 9:41 p.m.

[quote="Bach5G"]I’m listening to Trump’s speech. It sounds like he’s coming down with something.[/quote]

He was coming down with something in 2015. He sounds like my mother-in-law in the early stages of dementia.

Doug_Elliott · by **Doug_Elliott** » 2020-03-11 11:38 p.m.

I have 3 trips to Florida coming up for gigs, and I'm wondering if any of them might get cancelled at the last minute. So far nothing here has been cancelled but I'm not doing that much locally, maybe it's affecting others more.

Bach5G · by **Bach5G** » 2020-03-12 12:44 a.m.

A colleague returned from Seattle where he went to the opera and to a movie. He must have got them in just before they banned large public gatherings. I just don’t know how worried I should be sitting next to him in rehearsals.

LeTromboniste · by **LeTromboniste** » 2020-03-12 1:03 a.m.

I am luckily in Canada this week, giving a masterclass at UofT Friday and playing a concert Saturday. That's the last work I'll have for I don't know how long, though. All my gigs from now to the summer are in Switzerland or Germany, both of which have banned large events and I don't see them going back on that any time soon as the situation has just been getting worse. Most of them are not cancelled yet because organisers are holding their breath and hoping the situation improves and the ban is lifted but it's only a question of time before they get postponed or cancelled..so much for Holy Week...

Switzerland is seeing an exponential rise (they are now near the top of the list in cases per capita and last day count was a 150 increase in one day — almost a 30% hike) and has reached the point where the authorities have stopped counting new cases, as they are no longer testing younger or otherwise healthy patients or investigating the transmission chain of new reported cases, and instead diverting all resources to treating the higher risk/older patients.

SwissTbone · by **SwissTbone** » 2020-03-12 2:01 a.m.

Yeah here in Switzerland I got cancelled all my gigs for this weekend and I expect the same for next week. Strangely enough, rehearsals are maintained...

shider · by **shider** » 2020-03-12 3:59 a.m.

In Germany the minister of health has proposed that all events over 1000 people should be cancelled.. Due to our federal organisation the individual states can decide if they want to follow this or not. Baden-Württemberg where i live has followed that recommendation..

This weekend i will be playing a concert with a few hundred audience members, but we still are a little unsure if it's actually going to happen or if it will be cancelled last minute.. The organisator already canceled 3 other events this week, one with a group from south-tirol :shuffle:

Also in my region there is season for the yearly concerts of all the local town bands and a hand full have already canceled their concerts.. My band would play on 21st March, so still a little ahead.. But i don't see it slowing down, so maybe we have to cancel too :idk:

SwissTbone · by **SwissTbone** » 2020-03-12 4:29 a.m.

[quote="shider"]In Germany the minister of health has proposed that all events over 1000 people should be cancelled.. Due to our federal organisation the individual states can decide if they want to follow this or not. Baden-Württemberg where i live has followed that recommendation..

This weekend i will be playing a concert with a few hundred audience members, but we still are a little unsure if it's actually going to happen or if it will be cancelled last minute.. The organisator already canceled 3 other events this week, one with a group from south-tirol :shuffle:

Also in my region there is season for the yearly concerts of all the local town bands and a hand full have already canceled their concerts.. My band would play on 21st March, so still a little ahead.. But i don't see it slowing down, so maybe we have to cancel too :idk:[/quote]

Exactly the same situation as here in Switzerland. We even have to contact authorities for events with more than 150 people and ask if we can do the event or not. Quite a catastrophe scenario for all the town bands who want to play their concerts now - and all the small music festivals in april... it sucks.

marccromme · by **marccromme** » 2020-03-12 8:20 a.m.

In Denmark, Copenhagen Area, our brass band and big band concerts have been canceled, as well as local brass band competitions. So have rehearsal evenings, dance lessons, and many/all cultural, sports or leisure events with more than 100 attendees. Government closes all schools, universities, public working places, except for hospitals, fireworkers, rescue teams. Private companies are urged to tell their workingforce to work from home, if possible. So it's a close to total lockdown here. I think these measures will not be given up the first 3-4 weeks ... Although they are announced for the next two weeks only yet.

StephenK · by **StephenK** » 2020-03-12 8:28 a.m.

My band has a concert this Saturday, currently going ahead. Otherwise, in the main, events in the UK are generally going ahead for the moment, but that could change very quickly. I think organisers here will generally go by what the official advice is, even if they don't completely agree or would like to be more cautious. If there has been local contact with confirmed cases though, the cancellations are happening. One big problem is the lead time to symptoms and getting test results confirmed.

LeTromboniste · by **LeTromboniste** » 2020-03-12 10:17 a.m.

Oh and one of the main venues for early music concerts in Basel, which has a very nice series of monthly concerts, is adjacent to the hospital and is now being used as an isolation and testing venue for incoming patients. It's gonna be a while before any concerts happen there again...

Matt_K · by **Matt_K** » 2020-03-12 1:40 p.m.

I've been taking some time off from gigging but I have some stuff in late May so I suspect that that will still be on unless this gets really bad.

norbie2018 · by **norbie2018** » 2020-03-12 1:42 p.m.

Just got word that all our performances for March have been cancelled.

bigbandbone · by **bigbandbone** » 2020-03-12 1:49 p.m.

[quote="norbie2018"]Just got word that all our performances for March have been cancelled.[/quote]

Where are you?

norbie2018 · 2020-03-12 1:56 p.m.

[quote="bigbandbone"]<QUOTE author="norbie2018" post_id="106990" time="1584034973" user_id="2978">
Just got word that all our performances for March have been cancelled.[/quote]

Where are you?
</QUOTE>

Madison, WI area. Keep in mind we bring our performances to assisted living centers.

BGuttman · by **BGuttman** » 2020-03-12 3:13 p.m.

Just got word that a rehearsal band is canceling rehearsals for 2 weeks (to be extended if needed).

Also play in 2 Senior Centers, and don't know if they will be closing.

Enelson · by **Enelson** » 2020-03-12 3:55 p.m.

All gatherings of 500+ are banned in Sweden. I have seen concert cancellations at venues with an expected audience of 100 and less.

mwpfoot · by **mwpfoot** » 2020-03-12 4:15 p.m.

Most of the San Francisco Bay Area college campuses are closed, so all of those associated performances are off.

The community bands that I know have (mostly) already cancelled rehearsals, concerts and weekly gigs until further notice.

Bands and bookers are just now sorting out what to do with this weekend's (paying) gigs at the club level.

:(

Bassbonechandler · by **Bassbonechandler** » 2020-03-12 4:21 p.m.

I have to reschedule my senior recital because my college has made all classes online for 3 weeks.

Burgerbob · by **Burgerbob** » 2020-03-12 4:53 p.m.

And down goes Disneyland and LA Phil.

Mikebmiller · by **Mikebmiller** » 2020-03-12 5:23 p.m.

We have had one confirmed case in the county so far (SC). Our community band has a concert scheduled a week from Sunday. So far, we are still a go, but that could change. I hope we play as I am doing a solo and am really tired of practicing it. Almost as tired as my wife is of hearing me practice it.

norbie2018 · by **norbie2018** » 2020-03-12 5:29 p.m.

[quote="Mikebmiller"]We have had one confirmed case in the county so far (SC). Our community band has a concert scheduled a week from Sunday. So far, we are still a go, but that could change. I hope we play as I am doing a solo and am really tired of practicing it. Almost as tired as my wife is of hearing me practice it.[/quote]

What solo?

JohnL · by **JohnL** » 2020-03-12 6:08 p.m.

The closures and cancellations are coming thick and fast; I think it was mostly a matter of someone having to make the first move (and a nudge from the governor didn't hurt). It seems most colleges are taking steps to transition to online instruction wherever possible. So far, K-12's are planning to stay open (but without concerts, athletic events etc.); not only are there a significant number of students who don't have internet access outside school, but there are a lot of kids who depend of other services provided through schools (school lunch, etc.). One local high school band was on buses headed to the airport to fly to Europe when the work came down.

Bones West will be dark for at least the remainder of March. None of my other groups has announced yet, but I expect at least some of them to follow suit.

AndrewMeronek · by **AndrewMeronek** » 2020-03-12 6:21 p.m.

3 gig cancellations, plus one orchestra has its rehearsals tanked, due to being held in a community center that's closed. Fortunately for the orchestra, this is right after a concert, and the next one is in May. We'll see.

Mikebmiller · by **Mikebmiller** » 2020-03-12 7:08 p.m.

[quote="norbie2018"]<QUOTE author="Mikebmiller" post_id="107009" time="1584048233" user_id="213">
We have had one confirmed case in the county so far (SC). Our community band has a concert scheduled a week from Sunday. So far, we are still a go, but that could change. I hope we play as I am doing a solo and am really tired of practicing it. Almost as tired as my wife is of hearing me practice it.[/quote]

What solo?
</QUOTE>

Love's Enchantment - Pryor.

norbie2018 · by **norbie2018** » 2020-03-12 7:34 p.m.

[quote="Mikebmiller"]<QUOTE author="norbie2018" post_id="107012" time="1584048564" user_id="2978">

What solo?[/quote]

Love's Enchantment - Pryor.
</QUOTE>

I hope you do eventually play it - good luck!

BGuttman · by **BGuttman** » 2020-03-12 9:06 p.m.

One of my two Senior Center dances is cancelled until further notice. I suspect the other one is not long to follow. As one of the high risk individuals (over 70, high blood pressure, diabetes) I guess it's for the best. Don't breathe on me! :)

bkessler · by **bkessler** » 2020-03-12 9:40 p.m.

Here in SE Michigan, nearly everything is being cancelled. Most of the schools and universities are shutting down, at least temporarily. The community band I play in and the community orchestra my wife plays in have both ended the season early, and gigs are dropping quickly. I have a feeling there's not going to be much live music over the next month or two.

pmeiden · by **pmeiden** » 2020-03-13 8:05 a.m.

Yesterday NY State banned gatherings >500 people, do Broadway has gone dark, and all of the other larger hall performing arts orgs have closed. I subscribe to the NY Phil and they emailed to tell me that the Mar 29 concert that is in my series has been cancelled.

The community college my wife teaches at was on spring break this past week. They have extended break through the end of next week, and are resuming the week after using virtual learning.

BGuttman · by **BGuttman** » 2020-03-13 8:38 a.m.

My wife works at the Census. They are trying to figure out what to do. Lots of things are "in the air". In theory the Census counts everybody where they are on April 1, 2020. They planned to count college students at their colleges. But a lot of the students will be on extended break or distance learning at the time. Do they get counted at school or where they physically are? Interesting question (and no, I don't have the answer).

hyperbolica · by **hyperbolica** » 2020-03-13 10:25 a.m.

3 groups I play with have suspended operations, including 2 colleges. My quartet has 2 members 70+, so we're not meeting either.

Tarkus697 · by **Tarkus697** » 2020-03-13 11:44 a.m.

My concert band has canceled rehearsal next week and the board is having a meeting next week to discuss moving forward or cancellation of our spring concert.

My wedding/events band management has canceled all showcases for March and we're waiting to hear about our scheduled gig at the end of March.

Kingfan · by **Kingfan** » 2020-03-13 12:00 p.m.

Big band rehearses in an a nursing home, suspended for two weeks as of now (our band leader's decision) and I expect the home to make their own decision to kick us out for longer. Community band practices at a church; last Monday's rehearsal the director said we will keep going, but I bet the church will have other plans. Our gigs at nursing homes are supposed to start in a few weeks, which I doubt we'll be playing.

Edit: while I was typing the above comment, an e-mail came in saying the church has suspended all public events, including our rehearsals, until March 30 at least. Hey, now would be a good time to take my 7B in for service!

Ndwood · by **Ndwood** » 2020-03-13 1:07 p.m.

I'm located in NYC - I'm playing a musical in Westchester that surprisingly hasn't been cancelled but in general the cancellations have been catastrophic for freelancers here. Many have lost thousands of dollars worth of work essentially overnight. It seems like a lot of national or regional tours are also cancelling shows. Now would be a great time to try to take some virtual lessons with out of work freelancers!

Mikebmiller · by **Mikebmiller** » 2020-03-13 1:14 p.m.

[quote="norbie2018"]<QUOTE author="Mikebmiller" post_id="107022" time="1584054530" user_id="213">

Love's Enchantment - Pryor.[/quote]

I hope you do eventually play it - good luck!
</QUOTE>

Thanks. I first heard it on Alessi's Illuminations CD some years back. Then I found it in the book of Pryor solos that Carl Fischer publishes and played it with a piano at a trombone camp about 10 years ago. Finding the band parts was quite a challenge. We eventually got them from the Chatfield Band Library in Minnesota. They were printed on the backside of something called "calling all workers," which sounds like it might be the official Communist Party march.

It's not as technically hard as something like Blue Bells, but is really pretty. And it looks like we postponing the concert as of now, so my wife will have to suffer even longer.

BGuttman · by **BGuttman** » 2020-03-13 2:00 p.m.

[quote="BGuttman"]One of my two Senior Center dances is cancelled until further notice. I suspect the other one is not long to follow. As one of the high risk individuals (over 70, high blood pressure, diabetes) I guess it's for the best. Don't breathe on me! :)[/quote]

Well, another shoe has dropped. The other Senior Center has cancelled our dances until further notice (as well as all other activities). I surely hope that a 2 week quarantine of the country will "break" the pandemic.

Good luck to all you Gig workers. I hope our dysfunctional government comes up with some kind of safety net for you.

JohnL · by **JohnL** » 2020-03-13 4:08 p.m.

[quote="Mikebmiller"]They were printed on the backside of something called "calling all workers," which sounds like it might be the official Communist Party march.[/quote]
Maybe related to the ~~[url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Industrial_Workers_of_the_World]~~Industrial Workers of the World, which was founded in 1905. I could see them having their own march. They were a pretty big deal in the first part of the 20th century.

RConrad · by **RConrad** » 2020-03-13 5:15 p.m.

Well my concert this weekend just got postponed and all my classes went online as of today. I'm actually listening to a lecture right now. lol

bigbandbone · by **bigbandbone** » 2020-03-13 5:57 p.m.

Well, it's official! All of my rehearsals, concerts, and gigs here in SW Florida are cancelled! Guess I'll just have to lay around to pool and drink scotch! Seriously, it's a shame. I've got a new mouthpiece coming tomorrow and I really wanted to give it the "trial by fire".

JohnL · by **JohnL** » 2020-03-13 7:46 p.m.

At this point, this thread could probably be retitled "What We're NOT Doing".

FullPedalTrombonist · by **FullPedalTrombonist** » 2020-03-13 9:15 p.m.

I was just at WinCo to buy some “hangover food” for a 12hr gaming stream this weekend and checked out the paper goods aisle just for fun. Because that’s fun. Completely empty. People are nuts.

Symphony, musicals, and rehearsals for jazz bands have been cancelled for me. So when I’m back from vacation I’ll have to open up some wine and get to spring cleaning early with the extra vacation

baileyman · by **baileyman** » 2020-03-13 9:37 p.m.

[quote="JohnL"]<QUOTE author="Mikebmiller" post_id="107078" time="1584119672" user_id="213">They were printed on the backside of something called "calling all workers," which sounds like it might be the official Communist Party march.[/quote]
Maybe related to the ~~[url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Industrial_Workers_of_the_World]~~Industrial Workers of the World, which was founded in 1905. I could see them having their own march. They were a pretty big deal in the first part of the 20th century.
</QUOTE>

You can still be a Wobbly!

https://www.iww.org

And it looks like the song was for the Red Cross supplies workers:

<LINK_TEXT text="https://landofllostcontent.blogspot.com ... rkers.html">https://landofllostcontent.blogspot.com/2009/09/eric-coates-calling-all-workers.html</LINK_TEXT>

LeTromboniste · by **LeTromboniste** » 2020-03-13 10:24 p.m.

Got back from the masterclass I was giving to grab a quick bite before my dress rehearsal, only to find out that was cancelled along with the concert tomorrow. Sigh. At least we're getting paid for that one anyway, but it's probably the last income I'll be getting for three or four months...Though times ahead. Now struggling to change my travel arrangements so I can get home as quick as possible and attack the pile of office work that's been staring at me for months.

Kevbach33 · by **Kevbach33** » 2020-03-13 10:47 p.m.

My jazz band has cancelled all rehearsals until further notice, and a gig we had lined up, potentially, on May 2nd is also a no go. We rehearse in the Kirkland area, an epicenter for Washington State, so it's understandable our band leader wants none of it to spread to the band.

Guess i should schedule a couple of my horns to get serviced in the meantime...

Bach5G · by **Bach5G** » 2020-03-13 11:16 p.m.

A significant number of band members voted in favour of rehearsal tomorrow.

I really feel as if I don’t have enough information to make an informed decision. Anything seems possible. I have no idea what are reasonable precautions. I’m pretty sure sitting in close quarters, huffing and puffing, not to mention those pools of saliva and viruses, is not the best idea.

norbie2018 · by **norbie2018** » 2020-03-14 9:06 a.m.

If you're elderly and/or have a compromised immune system you should avoid crowds until further notice.

SwissTbone · by **SwissTbone** » 2020-03-14 9:08 a.m.

[quote="norbie2018"]If you're elderly and/or have a compromised immune system you should avoid crowds until further notice.[/quote]

I don't think thats quite enough.

Even if you are not old or at risk, you should avoid crowds as you may well have the virus in you without knowing it. So you can transmit it without being sick. Here in Switzerland thats why schools have been closed. Children aren't at risk, but they transmit the virus. Bring it home and transmit it to their grand parents.

norbie2018 · by **norbie2018** » 2020-03-14 10:10 a.m.

You are probably right, but I was addressing Bach5g's situation specifically.

Bach5G · by **Bach5G** » 2020-03-14 10:55 a.m.

Unfortunately, we have 2 subs lined up in the bone section and I have one of the books.

paulyg · by **paulyg** » 2020-03-14 3:15 p.m.

Every single concert I've been scheduled to play has been cancelled. Mine are community gags.

Every single pro/semi-pro group around here has cancelled their performances too (or had them cancelled by local governments).

Lots of musicians feeling the pain. But, lots of others feeling it, too.

I would definitely say that any rehearsals/concerts that are not financially necessary for the members should be cancelled outright. No need to risk lives for your community band. I'll also point out that putting the decision to postpone or cancel rehearsals and concerts to a vote is fine, but voting to hold these events is voting against the recommendations of public health officials.

BGuttman · by **BGuttman** » 2020-03-14 3:24 p.m.

One of the groups I participate in consists of a lot of older players; a good thing since we rehearse on Friday mornings. They decided to cancel rehearsals for two weeks. The lead trumpet player (also over 50) was livid and complained that we should rehearse. While the chances that we'd contaminate each other are small, I disagree with him (lead trumpet). We have entered a sort of national self quarantine. Anybody coming down with the illness will endure it alone and not spread it to others. In a couple of weeks the most contagious folks will be over it and we can resume our gregarious activity.

Had just about everything scheduled for the next two weeks except for doctor appointments and an appointment to put my car in the body shop cancelled. Gonna treat it like a staycation. I feel for those in the gig economy who will lose out on precious income.

Turtlebone · by **Turtlebone** » 2020-03-15 12:20 a.m.

My local performing arts center up here in Washington just cancelled Chicago, which was set to open next week and run for three weeks. It's a shame... so much fun being on stage with the cast. Really hoping we are able to reschedule it for later this year.

All other groups I play with have canceled rehearsals. Might manage to keep the brass quintet going if we can find a space which still be open for us.

Church is moving online tomorrow. Strange times.

SimmonsTrombone · by **SimmonsTrombone** » 2020-03-15 7:22 a.m.

BGuttman,

With hand sanitizers difficult to find, I’m looking at making my own using isopropyl alcohol and aloe Vera. The CDC says sanitizer needs to be 60% alcohol to be effective on this virus. Would this be a weight or volume measurement? Is 70% isopropyl alcohol weight or volume?

EdwardSolomon · by **EdwardSolomon** » 2020-03-15 7:28 a.m.

My orchestra is subject to the 6-week suspension of all public events at the university where we perform, so our concert a week today has been cancelled. It's a great pity, but completely understandable. Even if it went ahead, it would be to a virtually empty auditorium. The financial burden of these cancellations on individual musicians is incalculable, but sure to be utterly crippling.

BGuttman · by **BGuttman** » 2020-03-15 10:51 a.m.

[quote="SimmonsTrombone"]BGuttman,

With hand sanitizers difficult to find, I’m looking at making my own using isopropyl alcohol and aloe Vera. The CDC says sanitizer needs to be 60% alcohol to be effective on this virus. Would this be a weight or volume measurement? Is 70% isopropyl alcohol weight or volume?[/quote]

There are a few warnings against making your own hand sanitizer. Also, alcohol tends to dry out your skin. Also, this virus has a shell that is easily destroyed by soap. No need for alcohol.

70% isopropyl alcohol is generally by volume (although by weight is pretty close anyway). That won't allow for much aloe vera. You may need to use 91% isopropyl alcohol instead.

I was thinking of making this:~~[url]~~https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5XnrK6iSCE

SimmonsTrombone · by **SimmonsTrombone** » 2020-03-15 1:14 p.m.

BGuttman · by **BGuttman** » 2020-03-15 4:31 p.m.

]\\New Hampshire's governor has now closed schools through April 2. I think this may be a tad too long, but it's now panic time for the politicians. I hope that by April 2, all the people coming down with Covid-19 are done with it.

Burgerbob · by **Burgerbob** » 2020-03-15 4:40 p.m.

[quote="BGuttman"]]\\New Hampshire's governor has now closed schools through April 2. I think this may be a tad too long, but it's now panic time for the politicians. I hope that by April 2, all the people coming down with Covid-19 are done with it.[/quote]

I think it's going to end up being quite a bit longer than that.

norbie2018 · by **norbie2018** » 2020-03-15 4:51 p.m.

[quote="BGuttman"]]\\New Hampshire's governor has now closed schools through April 2. I think this may be a tad too long, but it's now panic time for the politicians. I hope that by April 2, all the people coming down with Covid-19 are done with it.[/quote]

Our schools in Dane County, WI (Madison) are now closed until April 2. It will most likely be longer. Plan on the spread of the virus to lay much longer.

imsevimse · by **imsevimse** » 2020-03-15 5:19 p.m.

All rehearsals cancelled and all my engagements are cancelled for the rest of month Mars.

/Tom

Kingfan · by **Kingfan** » 2020-03-15 6:10 p.m.

I belong to a neighborhood group on Yahoo. One guy posted that if any seniors needed help i.e. pickup of medication, grocery shopping, etc. let him know. Several others chimed in offering the same. One person is contacting the senior centers letting them know about the offers of assistance. Another is going to call the seniors on her street and offer help. With all the hype, hysteria, bad information, hoarding, and price gouging I hear about, it sure was nice to know some people in my neighborhood care about the well-being of others.

Grah · by **Grah** » 2020-03-15 7:14 p.m.

I am starting to think that we musicians are probably in more danger than most others when in contact with our band mates. This is because "coronavirus transmission typically takes place when droplets from an infected person enter another person's mouth or nose, including through a cough, sneeze or kiss". Just think about the extra danger we face with musicians using their spit valves and tonguing (spitting} into their instruments as part of playing their instrument.

Of course, for other musicians to be dangerous to one, they have to be suffering from the virus. But I am seriously thinking of staying away from band practices and gigs, because it is better to be safe than sorry.

Grah · by **Grah** » 2020-03-15 7:37 p.m.

And I just got the word from my community band that concerts have been cancelled. Plus this:

"Further to the above, we feel it is our responsibility to look after the welfare of our members and the wider community, and have taken the decision to cancel all rehearsals for all bands for the next two weeks. At this stage rehearsals will recommence in the week beginning 31st March. Please continue to practice your music at home, following the rehearsal plans and/or concert repertoire based on upcoming events."

Sensible decision, in my opinion.

Kevbach33 · by **Kevbach33** » 2020-03-15 10:19 p.m.

[quote="Burgerbob"]<QUOTE author="BGuttman" post_id="107244" time="1584304306" user_id="53">
]\\New Hampshire's governor has now closed schools through April 2. I think this may be a tad too long, but it's now panic time for the politicians. I hope that by April 2, all the people coming down with Covid-19 are done with it.[/quote]

I think it's going to end up being quite a bit longer than that.
</QUOTE>

Here in Washington, all schools have been closed until a minimum of April 24th. Since we're one of the hardest hit states at the moment, our governor is not taking chances with spreading the virus any more than it has.

Panic time indeed. I get the feeling this will only start slowing down sometime in May, once spring really kicks in.

Burgerbob · by **Burgerbob** » 2020-03-15 10:25 p.m.

CDC has just announced all gatherings of 50 or more should be banned for 8 weeks. Two months from now, folks.

BGuttman · by **BGuttman** » 2020-03-15 10:31 p.m.

At least the darn viruses can't travel along wires. We can continue to chat here.

SwissTbone · by **SwissTbone** » 2020-03-16 1:15 a.m.

[quote="Kevbach33"]<QUOTE author="Burgerbob" post_id="107245" time="1584304857" user_id="3131">

I think it's going to end up being quite a bit longer than that.[/quote]

Here in Washington, all schools have been closed until a minimum of April 24th. Since we're one of the hardest hit states at the moment, our governor is not taking chances with spreading the virus any more than it has.

Panic time indeed. I get the feeling this will only start slowing down sometime in May, once spring really kicks in.
</QUOTE>

Man... here in Switzerland schools are closed until April 30th, and we all know it will probably be longer. The virus is here since longer than in the US. So expect to close schools even longer than here.

Ted · by **Ted** » 2020-03-16 3:01 a.m.

Everything is cancelled up to the 6th of April. including the Dutch wind band championships we were participating in. The first time in 15 years our band goes to a championship, we're pretty on fire, and now it's all for nothing.. Well, as our director tells us: the journey is more important than the end result. But no result at all is very unsatisfying.

LeTromboniste · by **LeTromboniste** » 2020-03-16 5:49 a.m.

Yeah this is going to be a 2-3 months thing, not 2-3 weeks. Switzerland has had it for already 3 weeks now and hasn't reached the peak yet.

Tarkus697 · by **Tarkus697** » 2020-03-16 9:22 a.m.

It's the low season for weddings and such right now, with only one gig scheduled for the end of March, and we haven't heard anything about that yet. We are pretty confident that it'll be cancelled/rescheduled though.

As for my concert band, tonight's rehearsal was cancelled and the board is meeting on Sunday to determine the path forward as we have a concert scheduled for late April.

As for my day job, that's also centered around events (reunions and homecomings) and we've already had 2 customers cancel events and we're predicting more this week, at least for the early season in May. June events may happen, but no one is sure yet. Lots of meetings this week.

ddsbstrb · by **ddsbstrb** » 2020-03-16 1:22 p.m.

Here in SW Ohio, most gigs have been cancelled. The Ohio Valley British Brass Band, which I play Bb tuba, lost our rehearsal space. We work out of Wright State University in Dayton. We secured a back up space at a local high school and they have closed for at least 3 weeks. We also had a combined concert with the Brass Band of Columbus, which has been postponed. In Ohio any assembly of over 100 people is not allowed. I even heard the national British Brass Band Competition in Fort Wayne IN by NABBA, has also been cancelled for 2020.

I am an adjunct at Wittenberg University and all face-to-face teaching has ended until April 6th. Management state we could end up like many Ohio colleges/universities and cancel all face-to-face for current semester. We go online, today. Kind of difficult as we were on spring break last week and my two students do not have either their good trombones nor their music and books, at home. That really complicates teaching for applied teachers.

The Springfield Symphony cancelled a rehearsal and two Children's Concerts last Wednesday and Thursday, because our venue, Clark State Comm. College Performing Arts Center closes after a Blue Man Group sold out house on last Tuesday. Unfortunately, the SSO Office is also located within the Performing Arts Center. I assume our office staff must be working from their homes.

The Dayton Jazz Orchestra were cancelled, yesterday, for our monthly gig at Mother Stewart's Brewery in downtown Springfield. We have an appearance at Mother Stewart's annual jazz Sunday, on April 5th is on wait-and-see.

I also had a retirement village gig at Otterbein-Lebanon, cancelled. That was this Friday and was supposed to be a 1940's dance. I think visitation to places like nursing homes and senior citizens retirement and assisted living has been restricted or limited by the State of OH.

I have a former trumpet student, who lives and works in Italy, by the name of Tom Kirkpatrick, and, we have exchanged several emails. He was scheduled to come back to OH and visit his 90 year old mother and do a tour with several jazz gigs and teach at several places in the US. Of course, the Italians are much worse-off than we are, at this stage of the virus.

Interesting reading your experiences.

bimmerman · by **bimmerman** » 2020-03-16 8:46 p.m.

Well, bay area has gone into effective lockdown now-- we've been ordered to shelter in place until April 7th unless things change.

Dennis · by **Dennis** » 2020-03-16 10:52 p.m.

Just to confirm some things rumored above: (1) The 2020 NABBA Championships are canceled. (2) The Dublin (OH) Festival of Brass is canceled. (3) The Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra is dark at least through April 4. Expect that this will be extended to cancel the season.

On a personal note, all of the ensembles I play with are dark until further notice. One season is canceled entirely. I was going to play in the pit for a local production of Singing in the Rain. This is now officially on-hold, and I fully expect it to be canceled.

It's a really tough time to be a professional musician: my prayers and best wishes go out to all of you who make your livings bringing music to the world.

DougHulme · by **DougHulme** » 2020-03-17 4:16 a.m.

Across the pond shutting down now too, even though we are comparitevly less effected at the moment. All the ensembles I play for are cancelled both gigs and rehearsals. One of them until September. I have a cottage in Finland - wont be going there either the whole country is in lock down and no groups of more than 10 are allowed to meet, all schools and public buildings in the entire country are closed including churches. The world is full of fear just now... Doug

ExZacLee · by **ExZacLee** » 2020-03-17 8:03 a.m.

So, gig cancellations out the wazoo. I can't gripe too much, school check is still coming in, although I wonder what kind of damage this will do to the tax revenues public institutions like mine rely on... if I still have a job in the fall I'll thank my lucky stars. What gigs I do get until this clears up I'll probably pass on to my younger colleagues who are losing so much work.

I'm working on charts for a recording session in LA that might be cancelled, so glad I got 50% up front on that... I really hope it stays on the books - some other guys I know are on that session and they've lost enough work as it is.

We had a Bob McChesney with the Edmond Jazz Orchestra show scheduled at the UCO Jazz Lab on sunday that was cancelled - that will be rescheduled for a later date. Been working on that for a while, that was a real bummer. Had some new charts I wanted to try out, but at least we'll have time to practice on them!

I hope everyone is staying safe and healthy.

Bach5G · by **Bach5G** » 2020-03-17 10:02 a.m.

I woke up early this morning to find an email informing me I can work from home until further notice.

Meanwhile, I see the Canadian dollar is taking a beating. It will cost me $1.40 CDN to buy $1.00 USD.

BGuttman · by **BGuttman** » 2020-03-17 12:21 p.m.

[quote="Bach5G"]...

Meanwhile, I see the Canadian dollar is taking a beating. It will cost me $1.40 CDN to buy $1.00 USD.[/quote]

Everything is taking a beating. I'm afraid to look at the 401k I've been counting on for supporting my retirement. Glad I recently told them to lower my stock percentage.

Bach5G · by **Bach5G** » 2020-03-17 12:25 p.m.

[quote="BGuttman"]<QUOTE author="Bach5G" post_id="107389" time="1584453749" user_id="2999">
...

Meanwhile, I see the Canadian dollar is taking a beating. It will cost me $1.40 CDN to buy $1.00 USD.[/quote]

Everything is taking a beating. I'm afraid to look at the 401k I've been counting on for supporting my retirement. Glad I recently told them to lower my stock percentage.
</QUOTE>

You’ll have to move to some third world shithole country where the cost of living is cheap for ex-pat Americans. Welcome to Canada.

Gary · by **Gary** » 2020-03-17 12:26 p.m.

[quote="BGuttman"]I'm afraid to look at the 401k I've been counting on for supporting my retirement. Glad I recently told them to lower my stock percentage.[/quote]

One never retires, :biggrin: .

Gary · by **Gary** » 2020-03-17 12:27 p.m.

[quote="BGuttman"]<QUOTE author="Bach5G" post_id="107389" time="1584453749" user_id="2999">
...

Meanwhile, I see the Canadian dollar is taking a beating. It will cost me $1.40 CDN to buy $1.00 USD.[/quote]

Everything is taking a beating. I'm afraid to look at the 401k I've been counting on for supporting my retirement. Glad I recently told them to lower my stock percentage.
</QUOTE>
One never retires, LOL.

LeTromboniste · by **LeTromboniste** » 2020-03-17 12:42 p.m.

Yeah the Canadian dollar is really tanking, and the Swiss franc somehow managed to stay strong despite the situation being pretty dire here. I regret not transferring money to my Swiss account when it wasn't as bad, and dread the day in two or three months where I'm going to run out of francs and need to tap into my Canadian income to pay the bills...

pmeiden · by **pmeiden** » 2020-03-17 1:22 p.m.

[quote="Burgerbob"]<QUOTE author="BGuttman" post_id="107244" time="1584304306" user_id="53">
]\\New Hampshire's governor has now closed schools through April 2. I think this may be a tad too long, but it's now panic time for the politicians. I hope that by April 2, all the people coming down with Covid-19 are done with it.[/quote]

I think it's going to end up being quite a bit longer than that.
</QUOTE>
Yeah - NYC schools are closed at least through April 20. That said, the fact that they were scheduled to be closed from April 9 to 17th for Spring Recess (i.e., Easter/Passover) it kind of doesn't make sense to reopen for just a few days in early April.

Most suburban NY districts are closed a minimum of 2 weeks right now, but I'm sure that will change.

Westchester Community College, where my wife teaches extended Spring break (which was last week) to include this week, and they are prepping to resume instruction (online only) next week, for a least a week, likely more.

Good luck all and stay healthy!

~pme

RoscoTrombone · by **RoscoTrombone** » 2020-03-17 2:46 p.m.

This is such a strange and anxious time, it's affecting everything we do and it's impossible to completely switch off. It's like being in a never ending episode of the Twilight Zone!

All of my rehearsals/concerts are off, swimming pools/libraries etc are closing yet it's carry on as normal in the schools! My local high school has 16 staff off so they are keeping the seniors in & rotating the other years so only 2 of 3 are in.

Two other high schools are doing the same as of tomorrow. I've been in 5 schools in 2 days mixing with all the "super" carriers. One of my colleagues with asthma was told by a council officer that off it's not "chronic" then she has to come in to work otherwise she won't get paid. Her doctor has subsequently signed her off for the next 2 weeks.

I think they're doing their damnedest to keep the schools open until our Easter holiday! When they do close the schools I have about 45 meters of fencing to give 2 coats so at least that will keep me occupied!

Take care everyone,

Ross

SwissTbone · by **SwissTbone** » 2020-03-17 4:44 p.m.

[quote="LeTromboniste"]Yeah the Canadian dollar is really tanking, and the Swiss franc somehow managed to stay strong despite the situation being pretty dire here. I regret not transferring money to my Swiss account when it wasn't as bad, and dread the day in two or three months where I'm going to run out of francs and need to tap into my Canadian income to pay the bills...[/quote]

Swiss francs always goes up in crisis situations. It is considered as a safe haven because the currency is related to the gold stock of our national banc. Thats of course overly simplified, but it means our banc can't just print money without actually having a real value.

ddsbstrb · by **ddsbstrb** » 2020-03-17 5:29 p.m.

I just had a gig cancelled at the end of May! It might have been a wedding? Not great times for the working musician.

Burgerbob · by **Burgerbob** » 2020-03-17 6:46 p.m.

Right now, there are no working musicians, and won't be for weeks.

Bach5G · by **Bach5G** » 2020-03-17 7:40 p.m.

I’ve arranged for a guitar lesson by FaceTime this aft. No driving downtown, no cooped up in a tiny room (it’s too small for a trombone lesson).

EdwardSolomon · by **EdwardSolomon** » 2020-03-18 6:22 a.m.

I have had the remainder of this season summarily cancelled. No more prospect of any performance until the start of July at the earliest now. Even my son's bar mitzvah has had to be cancelled/postponed.

Pre59 · by **Pre59** » 2020-03-18 7:07 a.m.

I had two jazz gigs a week throughout the year, and some spring weekend festivals. It's all been cancelled until further notice..

harrisonreed · by **harrisonreed** » 2020-03-18 8:02 a.m.

I was hearing that, worst case, it clears up through the summer and then rewards its head again in the coming winter. I guess it likes the cold

norbie2018 · by **norbie2018** » 2020-03-18 8:43 a.m.

Please site your source, otherwise your only helping to spread misinformation. According to Michael Osterholm, epidemiologist from UMN, it can continue full throttle through the summer into the fall and winter, much unlike the cold.

BGuttman · by **BGuttman** » 2020-03-18 8:46 a.m.

[quote="harrisonreed"]I was hearing that, worst case, it clears up through the summer and then rewards its head again in the coming winter. I guess it likes the cold[/quote]

If that were the case, why is it spreading in Malaysia, which is near the Equator; or in Australia, where it is currently summer going into fall?

harrisonreed · by **harrisonreed** » 2020-03-18 9:22 a.m.

[quote="norbie2018"]Please site your source, otherwise your only helping to spread misinformation. According to Michael Osterholm, epidemiologist from UMN, it can continue full throttle through the summer into the fall and winter, much unlike the cold.[/quote]

That sounds even worse than what I heard, then.

Not proven by any means, but...

<LINK_TEXT text="https://fullfact.org/health/could-coron ... r-weather/">https://fullfact.org/health/could-coronavirus-be-stopped-by-warmer-weather/</LINK_TEXT>

Supports me saying what I heard. Guess I'm done posting in this thread. あばよ

norbie2018 · by **norbie2018** » 2020-03-18 12:49 p.m.

The very first item on the link that you're reporting from answers the question will it continue during summer months as we don't know. But you stated it would diminish by the summer months, right?

If you're going to state facts about this thing state them accurately. Otherwise don't state them at all.

Bach5G · by **Bach5G** » 2020-03-18 12:59 p.m.

Easy Norbie.

Meanwhile the US/Can border is closed to non-essential traffic.

“Purpose of trip?”

“New trombone mpc”.

“Long tones!” Customs Officer clubs me over the head.

Fun thing to do: Check out Point Roberts WA on a map.

norbie2018 · by **norbie2018** » 2020-03-18 1:30 p.m.

[quote="Bach5G"]Easy Norbie.

Meanwhile the US/Can border is closed to non-essential traffic.

“Purpose of trip?”

“New trombone mpc”.

“Long tones!” Customs Officer clubs me over the head.

Fun thing to do: Check out Point Roberts WA on a map.[/quote]

Easy regarding what? People need to state facts regarding the situation not fears or hearsay. His link specifically stated that they don't know if the virus would last through the summer, and yet he stated it may end. Facts matter.

DougHulme · by **DougHulme** » 2020-03-18 2:50 p.m.

I had dinner on Friday with an emminent surgeon, someone who has been a government advisor on medical issues in the past, really knows his stuff... he said some interesting things. Nothing he said actually contradicts the news media but its amazing the different spin he put on the same scenario, here is some of what he said.

It is 'just' another incident of a virus crossing over just like 4 or 5 others in the last 2 or 3 deacdes.

This virus is almost identical to the SARS virus of 3 years ago just an odd geno different.

This virus's actually characteristic symptoms are fractionally worse than the SARS but way way less than the Spanish Flu. The Spanish Flu's characteristic was to produce 6 times its own volume in water once it entered the body. This led to almost everyone who died in 1918 drowning. It should be noted we now know much more about draining lungs and treating Pneumonia today than we did then not to even mention the fact that we have some technology like incubaters and oxygen. I mention this because he said the present virus seems to have the characteristic of only 2 or possibly 3 times its volume.

This is not to in anyway diminish the magnitude of what we are facing or the contagous nature of it. In a way he was saying it is 'just flu' (dont jump on me for saying that - it is just as serious but it is flu not a new disease).

It sounds too obvious to say this but the reason it is so contagous is because it is new to us and therefore we have no immunity to protect us. Not because it is some super charged never before seen virus, he actually said this virus is not actually particularly robust. However... this does mean that as we all recover from it the natural pool of resistant humans increases dramatically almost at the same rate as it accelerates. If we are to believe the latest reports coming out of China they have passed this point now and in fact it is decelarting if there is such a scenario. We in the West however are somewhat behind the time scale so still have the peak yet to come.

Going back to Harrisons point my chap did say that these things do go in waves, they peak then fall back then come again (though each time slightly less severe) so actually what Harrison heard could be true, not because of the climate but because of the timing.

He also went on to say that in his humble opinion it is likely that in the UK we are likely to see less than a 1% mortality rate. Since there are 66 million of us (depending on whose figures you read) in the UK thats still eye wateringly tragic but it also means that almost everyone we know will get better and many will not even know they have had it.

I make no comment on the measures our different countries have been taking to combat the problem I am fully supportive of whatever they do and if it saves one life I'd consider it worthwhile. Weve never before tried to kill a pandemic weve always just responded. However the news media dont really seem interested in reporting the more positive factors but dwell on the armageddon aspect.

This is obviously a jumble of what my learned friend told me and my own recollections and interpretations so dont shoot me for putting my head above the parapet and I am not claiming any authority in the matter just passing on a conversation that I thought was interesting and held merit. It was more encouraging than what teh British media have been handing out.

The world will return to normality eventually we just have to survive for a bit and I know thats the tricky part, especially if you dont have work and/or you lose someone you love.

Doug

Burgerbob · by **Burgerbob** » 2020-03-18 2:56 p.m.

Let's not downplay a 1 percent mortality rate... Assuming only half of Americans are infected, that's still 1.5 million deaths directly from the virus, not counting those from hospital overcrowding related issues.

Pre59 · by **Pre59** » 2020-03-18 2:56 p.m.

[quote="DougHulme"]

He also went on to say that in his humble opinion it is likely that in the UK we are likely to see less than a 1% mortality rate.

Doug[/quote]

Was that a 1% mortality rate overall population? Or 1% of infected people, there's a big difference.

BGuttman · by **BGuttman** » 2020-03-18 3:51 p.m.

[quote="Pre59"]<QUOTE author="DougHulme" post_id="107502" time="1584557409" user_id="3157">

He also went on to say that in his humble opinion it is likely that in the UK we are likely to see less than a 1% mortality rate.

Doug[/quote]

Was that a 1% mortality rate overall population? Or 1% of infected people, there's a big difference.
</QUOTE>

I'm pretty sure it's 1% of infecteds. The normal flu mortality rate is 0.05% of infecteds. Some of the data from China indicated 3% of infecteds, but that may be due to a low test rate. Note that most victims are people who are older than 60, have high blood pressure, or have breathing disorders; or any combination of the above.

norbie2018 · by **norbie2018** » 2020-03-18 4:39 p.m.

With all respect to the surgeon's opinion mentioned (and I am not attacking the poster for sharing it), I'd rather rely on epidemiologists and others with experience with infectious diseases to formulate an opinion on this.

DougHulme · by **DougHulme** » 2020-03-18 6:24 p.m.

by norbie2018 » Wed Mar 18, 2020 9:39 pm

With all respect to the surgeon's opinion mentioned (and I am not attacking the poster for sharing it), I'd rather rely on epidemiologists and others with experience with infectious diseases to formulate an opinion on this.

I cant comment on the States but over here the problem is we are not accepting the expert and largely unbiased opinion of the government advisors we are listening to the news medias interpretation of that advice and formulating our own opinions based on that instead of accepting that of those wiser. Its like it was a political issue rather than a scientific one. The government (probably on both sides of The Atlantic) are suffering a lack of confidence because almost half the population think the party that won the elction doesent represent them and therefore must be lying or incompetent!

I am not refferring to you Norbie in saying that its just your comment connected with that thought. I agree with your point (though I think the doctor does have some experience in these things too). In answer to another point yes it was less than 1% of those infected which yes I take the point that is still a huge number; though over here last year was a bad year for what we are now calling 'winter flu' and we actually had a fractionally higher death rate than that 1%. Maybe that 3% in China is due to not so good health care for the vunerable people that Bruce listed or just over whelming numbers that such a huge population generates. That said its higher in Italy too.

MalecHeermans · by **MalecHeermans** » 2020-03-18 6:52 p.m.

My friend and wonderful bass player Steve Whipple put a list together of professionals on all instruments that are offering remote lessons. If it hasn’t already become clear to you, the current situation has been absolutely devastating to professional musicians. Many live week to week on what they can hustle up and in a very short space of time literally everything has been taken off of their calendars.

There are some AMAZING trombone players on this list. If you are in a financial position to do it and you’ve been thinking about having a remote lesson with a world class performer now is the time!

There are also people offering lessons on pretty much any instrument and musical subject you can think of, so utilize that and please share far and wide.

<GOOGLESHEETS id="1k_UVgnaaRjFdjxNKRgQvI1GhBe0I3IUJJMGfqZ1Qx0M"><LINK_TEXT text="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/ ... sp=sharing">https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1k_UVgnaaRjFdjxNKRgQvI1GhBe0I3IUJJMGfqZ1Qx0M/edit?usp=sharing</LINK_TEXT></GOOGLESHEETS>

Our very own Nick Grinder is on that list. If you haven’t checked out his latest album Farallon you really must. I’m sure you could purchase a copy directly from Nick and then take an awesome lesson or series of lessons with him. He’s a great improviser, has great technique, has checked out all sorts of gear, and is just a really nice guy - though we never get to work together :idk: <span class="emoji" title=":wink:">😉</span>

Now replace Nick’s name with any name on that list. This is a collection of deeply skilled artists who can really help you realize that next step in your musical development. But, you know, still grab a lesson and CD (LP?) or download from Nick cause he’s a bad dude.

Posaunus · by **Posaunus** » 2020-03-18 7:10 p.m.

[quote="MalecHeermans"]My friend and wonderful bass player Steve Whipple put a list together of professionals on all instruments that are offering remote lessons.[/quote]

Fantastic job. :good:

Hope this helps some of these deserving (and increasingly desperate) folks.

LeTromboniste · by **LeTromboniste** » 2020-03-18 8:06 p.m.

I'm not a doctor or epidemiologist, but some of the numbers advanced here are way off from officially reported numbers, for instance the death rate is certainly much higher than 1% of confirmed cases. All the publicly available tallies point to a higher number. The mortality rate in China is reported as just under 4% but it might very well have been downplayed by the Chinese authorities (just like they knew far earlier about the epidemics than they admitted at first — this regime will go to great length to save face). Close to 8% in Italy, and estimated at 7% worldwide. Yes there are places with lower number, Switzerland is reported at 1%, Belgium 0.8%. But overall, much higher that 1%. And in the US, too early to really tell and the data is very patchy and sketchy because of all the early testing problems(just look at the CDC reports and all the caveats they include about incomplete data), but given the abysmal state of healthcare availability, I'm not holding my breath. Of course those are rates among confirmed cases only and the death rate among overall cases is necessarily lower, but that's the same with every disease, you can't know the real death rate as you can't know how many cases go unreported. The flu is not 1% death rate in the US, by the way, it's typically 1% hospitalization rate and 0.1% death rate according to the CDC. People have to stop comparing this to the seasonal flu. It doesn't compare.

But the more important numbers are really the spread rate and the rate of cases that require hospitalization and/or intensive care. There are finite numbers of ICU beds and respirators, and if we run out of them because we can't slow the spread, that's the ball game. That's the real problem here, not so much that the virus is new or particularly deadly.

paulyg · by **paulyg** » 2020-03-19 12:02 a.m.

^It's hyperbolic to discuss the death rate in such terms. Though the number of infected is likely much higher than reported, the death rate is likely much lower.

I know that the US healthcare system is routinely scorned, especially by Europeans, but I can say that it is second-to-none in terms of the quality of the workforce (physicians and nurses), and in terms of its academic and analytic capability.

Here in the US, the CDC is absolutely an obstacle to effectively combating the outbreak. The state and local health authorities, however, have been performing admirably. The shelter-in-place orders (like the one I am currently under) are instituted by local authority in order to preserve and enhance access to healthcare. It seems quite disingenuous to critique the US healthcare system in comparison to European single-payer systems under the circumstances, where Italy especially seems to have acted far too late, and the UK seems headed down an even worse path.

norbie2018 · by **norbie2018** » 2020-03-19 8:01 a.m.

The truth is we won't know accurate death rates for months or even years to come. We simply don't have enough data. I agree that what states and local municipalities to combat the spread will likely have a significant impact in reducing the amount of deaths. Remember, this should allow hospitals enough staffing & beds to take care of the people who do contract the illness.

u_11561man · by **u_11561man** » 2020-03-19 1:12 p.m.

A friend who works in the public health department at UChicago says that the US is essentially 11 days behind Italy in all facets of this pandemic. Very disheartening.

baileyman · by **baileyman** » 2020-03-19 2:52 p.m.

It's hard, I think, for most people to contemplate exponential growth. A thing starts small, but numbers exist so you know the size, and it's growing increasingly fast, but it's still small. And the numbers seem small for a long time during the ramp-up. Then suddenly, the numbers are too big, and it seems to have happened overnight. The climate catastrophe is like that. And locomotive headlights.

paulyg · by **paulyg** » 2020-03-19 4:45 p.m.

[quote="11561man"]A friend who works in the public health department at UChicago says that the US is essentially 11 days behind Italy in all facets of this pandemic. Very disheartening.[/quote]

I believe you may have misinterpreted that. We are on a delay in terms of the spread, however many US responses (distancing, shutdowns) were initiated at an earlier stage than in Italy- at least this is what I have been led to believe.

DougHulme · by **DougHulme** » 2020-03-19 5:13 p.m.

Baileyman is right. just now in the UK numbers are low, lower in fact than seasonal numbers last year in the County I live in there are just 270 cases and only 3 deaths with a population of about 4 million. You could feel quite good about that if it were not for the fact that it is as baileyman describes. It is frightening to think what may happen in Portsmouth where I live its not such a big city, less than 500,000 anyway, yet it is the most denseley populated city in Europe (its on an island its gone up instead of out!) but at the moment only one case. Not sure at the moment Paul why you think the UK is headed down a worse path than Italy? I think our health system even if stretched as hard as Italy is better organised and will cope better, though we still dont have enough ventialters by any standards. Maybe its the calm before the storm?

paulyg · by **paulyg** » 2020-03-19 6:19 p.m.

The UK is more proximal to the worst-hit areas, and the government threw all of its chips behind the "herd immunity" theory until two days ago. Even though the guidance from BoJo's government has changed to be slightly more sensible, schools in the UK are still open, and to my knowledge, no shelter-in-place/quarantine orders have been issued.

harrisonreed · by **harrisonreed** » 2020-03-19 6:56 p.m.

It's interesting in Japan here. I think it is clear that the government is not doing enough testing, so the number of cases is artificially low. HOWEVER:

It is not a pandemic here. People are not getting sick at some accelerated rate. Everyone is wearing their face masks (which people do all the time here anyways, if they have a cold or if that have allergies), so I think this helps prevent a lot of transmissions. There was a run on toilet paper which is now over, and masks are now hard to find, but nothing else seems to be happening like the freak out that is going on in the US and Europe. If people were dying from respiratory complications at an accelerated rate here, there would be a panic, but that's not the case.

This is despite the fact that Sapporo was LOADED with tourists for the ice festival. And a government response that basically said, too late in the game, "yeah, no big gatherings,we guess. Schools maybe can close if they want. Companies can make their own choice about remote work."

Completely different from what I'm hearing about in other countries.

Bach5G · by **Bach5G** » 2020-03-19 7:14 p.m.

Hey Harrison, can you send me an N95 mask and some hand sanitizer?

harrisonreed · by **harrisonreed** » 2020-03-19 7:40 p.m.

No. That would start a panic! Besides, I said masks are hard to find.

Bach5G · by **Bach5G** » 2020-03-19 7:44 p.m.

I just saw a segment on tv that showed Chinese cops wearing helmets that were equipped with scanners so that at a glance the cops could see who had a temperature. Sort of like night vision goggles I guess.

In N America we’ve run out of the Q-tip swabs.

harrisonreed · by **harrisonreed** » 2020-03-19 7:46 p.m.

[quote="Bach5G"]I just saw a segment on tv that showed Chinese cops wearing helmets that were equipped with scanners so that at a glance the cops could see who had a temperature. Sort of like night vision goggles I guess.

In N America we’ve run out of the Q-tip swabs.[/quote]

Those helmets are actually designed to identify people whose blood burns for democracy.

Posaunus · by **Posaunus** » 2020-03-19 7:56 p.m.

[quote="Bach5G"]In N America we’ve run out of the Q-tip swabs.[/quote]

Heard on the radio that most of our medical sample swabs are made in Italy! :idk:

SimmonsTrombone · by **SimmonsTrombone** » 2020-03-20 6:05 a.m.

I spent nearly 50-years in the media in one way or another - including more than 20 as a news and documentary producer. In judging what you hear on the news consider that the person who wrote the script, and the person who read it, probably avoided every science and math course possible in college. I knew several reporters who scanned college courses and selected journalism because the major had no math requirement. In the days before the internet, I was surprised that almost all reporters I knew had no reading material at home - no books, no magazines, no newspapers.

I listen to all news reports very carefully and try to get source information before believing anything.

Posaunus · by **Posaunus** » 2020-03-20 1:32 p.m.

[quote="SimmonsTrombone"]In judging what you hear on the news consider that the person who wrote the script, and the person who read it, probably avoided every science and math course possible in college. I knew several reporters who scanned college courses and selected journalism because the major had no math requirement. In the days before the internet, I was surprised that almost all reporters I knew had no reading material at home - no books, no magazines, no newspapers.[/quote]

This doesn't seem to be universally true. The science and health reporters on National Public Radio (a major source of my information) seem educated and well-informed on their specialties, and (as a scientist myself) I believe that I am getting as straight a story from them as can be expected – especially when not everything is known.

Our President is not helping when he publicly advocates use of a malaria drug as a COVID-19 antiviral (over the loud protests of his own medical experts), even though it has never been tested as an appropriate therapy. Trump claims that he is a "smart guy" and has "heard good things" about this drug, and has a strong feeling that it will work. :horror:

BGuttman · by **BGuttman** » 2020-03-20 1:36 p.m.

Trump must be a subscriber to the MYASS program (look it up) ;)

I would love for this malaria drug to be effective, but we have to prove it out. This takes WAY more than a few days.

norbie2018 · by **norbie2018** » 2020-03-20 1:58 p.m.

The French and a rep from WHO stated that Ibuprofen and other NSAIDs can exacerbate the symptoms of covid 19. However, researchers from our country are coming out and saying that's bunk. It's hard to know what is truth or fact so early in the situation. I do believe it's irresponsible for for saying any medicine is helpful or harmful without the proper research to prove such. However, I do understand that doctors and Healthcare Providers on the front line have to use their best judgement when using medicines that are unproven for treating covid 19.

Bach5G · 2020-03-20 3:33 p.m.

There’s nothing to suggest we’ve turned the corner on this.

This morning the talking heads on tv were on about US senators reassuring the public while, at the same time, dumping their stocks. I’m shocked.

u_11561man · by **u_11561man** » 2020-03-20 3:59 p.m.

Illinois just issued a stay-at-home order less than 24 hours after California.

Kingfan · by **Kingfan** » 2020-03-20 4:47 p.m.

My 26 hours a week part time job is at an auto parts store, considered an "essential business" so we will stay open along with supermarkets, gas stations, etc. I'm retired, got bored, got this job to keep busy and not for the money. Today corporate cut back the hours we are open so my work hours are being cut almost in half. I have an 87 year old housebound mother in law who doesn't drive and my wife just had foot surgery so I am getting her mom's prescriptions and groceries and taking her to doctor's appointments. Last thing I want to do is pass the virus on to her. I figure it isn't worth the risk working retail and getting exposed, so next week is my last until this all blows over. My boss is cool with it, others need the hours more than I do anyway.

Digidog · by **Digidog** » 2020-03-20 9:24 p.m.

[quote="BGuttman"]<QUOTE author="Bach5G" post_id="106931" time="1583975367" user_id="2999">
I’m listening to Trump’s speech. It sounds like he’s coming down with something.[/quote]

He was coming down with something in 2015. He sounds like my mother-in-law in the early stages of dementia.
</QUOTE>

This is my impression too. My (maternal) grandmother did the same squinting and grimacing when she developed dementia, as he does. She also clenched her hands, to keep them from shaking, in a very similar way as Trump; so it's not too far fetched to assume there's something coming down.

On topic: I lost a three gig weekend with a Big Band because the events got cancelled due to Corona restrictions, and then got sick myself. I'm not sure I'm Corona infected, but the restrictions in Sweden are to stay at home if you have ever the slightest symptom related to a cold or the flu. So I've been at home from the school where I teach (music) for a week alreday, and since whatever infection I have seems to be a dogged one (with recurring symptoms), it's likely I may be quarantined at home next week too.

Then, when I finally recover, all events are cancelled, all venues are closed; school (all schools) might be closed and all orchestras and bands are on hiatus.....

harrisonreed · by **harrisonreed** » 2020-03-20 11:52 p.m.

[quote="Bach5G"]There’s nothing to suggest we’ve turned the corner on this.

This morning the talking heads on tv were on about US senators reassuring the public while, at the same time, dumping their stocks. I’m shocked.[/quote]

Some people were calling this insider trading. Those people clearly have never bought a stock or watched the market, or the news. Especially during a financial crisis Sigh...

If we had seen politicians dumping stocks in January, when the virus was in it's earliest stages and only just leaving China, before any policy decisions were made, then that would some unethical behavior. Everyone can clearly see the market taking a dump.

Young people should be snatching up stocks now while they are on sale. Older people (including nearly every politician) would be fools to watch their stocks ride on towards zero with their retirement around the corner. Moving funds over to low risk investments needed to happen for all old people brave enough to be in the market in the first place, as soon as it became clear that the market was in for a turn.

I can't stress enough, that not only politicians, but everyone's mom and dad or Grandma and Grandpa should be avoiding risk during uncertain financial times. It's not their job to keep the stock market floating. Time is not on their side.

What is there to be shocked about? They are most likely moving their money from corporate stocks over to government and municipal bonds, one way or the other. That's not exactly unhelpful to society.

Bach5G · by **Bach5G** » 2020-03-21 1:47 a.m.

[quote="harrisonreed"]

If we had seen politicians dumping stocks in January, when the virus was in it's earliest stages and only just leaving China, before any policy decisions were made, then that would some unethical behavior. Everyone can clearly see the market taking a dump.

..,

What is there to be shocked about? They are most likely moving their money from corporate stocks over to government and municipal bonds, one way or the other. That's not exactly unhelpful to society.[/quote]

Burr made 33 transactions, all sales, on Feb 23, even as he was reassuring Americans that everything was under control.

Shocked:

<YOUTUBE id="HMIyDf3gBoY">https://youtu.be/HMIyDf3gBoY</YOUTUBE>

harrisonreed · by **harrisonreed** » 2020-03-21 2:41 a.m.

[quote="Bach5G"]

Burr made 33 transactions, all sales, on Feb 23, even as he was reassuring Americans that everything was under control.

Shocked:

<YOUTUBE id="HMIyDf3gBoY">https://youtu.be/HMIyDf3gBoY</YOUTUBE>[/quote]

So he should have said, "everything is not alright", while selling all his stock and moving over to risk adverse investing? Or just nothing at all?

In any case, again, that was the time for risk taking older people to move over to bonds and safer investments ... What should they have done?

Also, this means that stocks are on sale:

<LINK_TEXT text="https://www.google.com/amp/s/redmondreg ... o.html/amp">https://www.google.com/amp/s/redmondregister.com/2020/03/20/credit-suisse-ag-acquires-14426-shares-of-vanguard-sp-500-etf-nysearcavoo.html/amp</LINK_TEXT>

DougHulme · by **DougHulme** » 2020-03-21 5:37 a.m.

So heres a thing... I teach children and work with their familes who have special needs,often from abused or impoverished backgrounds. they never get music lessons at school because even if it costs £10 they wont do it and if it needs 10 minutes extra curricular they wont stay and thats if they are at school in the first place - so that sets the scene. One of the characteristics of these families is they never listen to the news at least 'proper' news (and I loved simmons Trombone contribution on that subject) They dont watch TV and if they do and the news comes on - they switch channels, they rarely listen to the radio and the same thing if they do and the news comes on they switch channels, they never buy a newspaper (quite a few cant read!). So these days they get their 'news' from facebook, instagram and each other. So Thursday someone who lives in Portsmouth has a picture of a group of army personnel coming into Portsmouth last year for the security of President Trumps visit (you can clearly see its Portsmouth in the background) they caption it "taken this morning as troops arrive to administer the Coronovirus outbreal in Portsmouth" A couple of minutes later someone else who has a photograph of the police policing a previous football game at the local Team with horses puts up "Yes the horses are out too to keep order". Well amongst those who do not listen to daily briefings or read a newspaper or even the (unreliable) talking heads of the main TV channels it is now understood and accepted that some kind of 'Marshal Rule' now exists in the city of Portsmouth! - its like hundreds of people (its a small city) totally believe its all true and there have been other rumours and mistruths attached as well. You can see how social media could completely blow any semblence of order and best intentions of the government and local authorities out of the water!! Frightening.

Bach5G · by **Bach5G** » 2020-03-21 12:15 p.m.

Looks like a pump and dump Harrison. What you want from your elected representatives. Our so-called leaders speak.

harrisonreed · by **harrisonreed** » 2020-03-21 8:14 p.m.

[quote="Bach5G"]Looks like a pump and dump Harrison. What you want from your elected representatives. Our so-called leaders speak.[/quote]

"Pump and dump" doesn't apply to this situation... it's just a "dump".

If you have an interest in investing, I would actually love to talk about that. I have a real passion for investing!

I'm going to bow out, because I can't stand politics. I don't want to get on anybody's bad side.

Bach5G · by **Bach5G** » 2020-03-21 9:18 p.m.

“Pump” if you’re assuring everybody that everything is fine, dump, well, self-explanatory.

I’ve been playing defence for several years now. Some cash, some bonds, mostly dividend paying stocks and some Canadian banks. The timing could be better, as my retirement window is now, but overall I’d been preparing for a market downturn.

harrisonreed · by **harrisonreed** » 2020-03-21 9:54 p.m.

[quote="Bach5G"]“Pump” if you’re assuring everybody that everything is fine, dump, well, self-explanatory.
[/quote]

That's an opinion, "everything is fine". Usually, a company will cook the books, or release false financial information, or hype up a non-existent business model before an IPO. Then there has to be an upside on the individual stock. Then the insiders dump their shares. The pump and dump. What individual stock are you talking about being pumped? The upside on the market as a whole has been going on for years now, and there definitely was no upside going on while politicians were talking about things being fine. Just downside.

You can't pump and dump the US market. Especially with an opinion, and as an individual investor that doesn't have a significant share in the entire market.

But seriously, this now has nothing to do with Corona Virus. I love investing discussions but we should do it in a different thread.

Posaunus · by **Posaunus** » 2020-03-22 2:04 a.m.

I knew things were bad, but …

A close relative is a Registered Nurse whose current assignment is at the Emergency Department at Yale New Haven (Connecticut) Hospital – a major urban healthcare center. She has been on duty for nearly 100 hours this past week (but thankfully, is just beginning 10 days off – unless they call her back on an emergency basis).

Of the hundreds of patients she has seen this week, 10 have been confirmed positive for COVID-19. I guess it’s good that they are able to test those patients and confirm their illness.

But what’s completely unacceptable is that the medical staff does not have appropriate protective equipment – especially the all-important N95 Respirator Masks. The recommendations for these tight-fitting masks is that the seal be checked each time they are donned (to avoid leakage around the edges), and that each mask “ideally should be discarded after each patient encounter and after aerosol-generating procedures. It should also be discarded when it becomes damaged or deformed; no longer forms an effective seal to the face; becomes wet or visibly dirty; breathing becomes difficult; or if it becomes contaminated with blood, respiratory or nasal secretions, or other bodily fluids from patients.”

Instead, at New Haven Hospital, each Emergency Department nurse was given a single mask and told to wear them until they are essentially unusable (filthy, wet, etc.) no matter how many patients are encountered – for days in some cases. This of course, presents an obvious risk of contamination to the medical staff, and of cross-contamination from one patient to another. That these widely produced masks are unavailable to the medical community is an unconscionable travesty, further exacerbated by our government’s seeming inability to respond during this multifaceted crisis. (Got any extra COVID test kits lying around, anyone?)

<LINK_TEXT text="https://www.wtnh.com/news/new-haven-off ... -march-22/">https://www.wtnh.com/news/new-haven-officials-in-need-of-n95-masks-donations-can-be-made-at-firehouse-march-22/</LINK_TEXT>

In this, the wealthiest country in the world, this third-world situation gives us little to be proud of. The situation is dire now, and will surely get much worse before it abates. There’s plenty of blame to be spread around. And all most of us can do is to shelter in place!

baileyman · by **baileyman** » 2020-03-23 9:05 a.m.

Massachusetts reported three deaths yesterday and two the day before. Just to estimate what the real situation is here, I do this:

They probably got infected three weeks ago. The death rate is somewhere near 1%. So three weeks ago total infections could have been 300. The doubling period is perhaps three days, so there have been perhaps seven doublings over the three weeks: 2^7 = 128. Thus today's infection count could be about 40,000. MA population is approaching 7 million, so we are near 1/2% total infection rate.

The State is reporting about 650 infections, a bit lower than this estimate. This disparity is one of the costs of our testing bungle, not knowing the size of the problem. The other cost is not knowing where the problem is so it can be addressed directly.

Anyway, 40,000 virus shedders spread randomly around the state should make for a very decently high probability of infection. In a week with the number approaching 200,000 (unless our stay at home routine has an effect on doubling period) that probability should become quite high. It seems likely many residents have not come near an infected person so far. Soon the likelihood flips.

norbie2018 · by **norbie2018** » 2020-03-23 9:50 a.m.

That's one of the problems without having enough testing out there. Some people may perceive these cases are very low and therefore the threat is very low. When in all likelihood the numbers are much higher then is being reported right now.

pmeiden · by **pmeiden** » 2020-03-23 5:38 p.m.

Just received a call from the NY Phil cancelling the rest of my subscription season -- all events through June 13 cancelled. Mahler 2 was on the docket for my April 24 Concert. Ah well.

Stay safe and healthy, all.

DougHulme · by **DougHulme** » 2020-03-23 6:08 p.m.

The PrimeMinster just announced they are going to pass laws this week closing all non essential shops, all public buildings, we will only be allowed out once a day to do essential shopping or take excercise. No travel to work unless you can prove you cant work from home and no non essential work anyway. No public assemblies of any kind accept funerals and then only the immediate family. No gathering of more than two people. No visitation of friends unless it is to supporet vulnerable people. Although the laws havent been passed the measures are to take effect from midnight tonight (GMT) This is for the whole of The UK.

RoscoTrombone · by **RoscoTrombone** » 2020-03-23 6:32 p.m.

In light of that Doug I was just watching the news....as it stands the transmission rate is 1 infected person passes it on to 2.5 people so after 30 days there are 400 infections.

If people reduce their social contact by 50% then the transmission drops to 1.25 people meaning only 15 after 30 days.

We all have to do our bit here and seeing the crowds that have been out over the weekend is ridiculous,it takes the absolute piss out of the seriousness of this and makes me very angry.

I now have to face a most likely very busy & stressful trip to the supermarket tomorrow morning as my mum who is in her 70's needs supplies and can't drive. I'm desperately hoping that people are considerate but am not holding out!

Ross

DougHulme · by **DougHulme** » 2020-03-23 6:45 p.m.

No dont hold your breath on that one. The stupid thing is all those people that were featured out and about by the media could have done all those activities if they had spread their locations (geographically) out and kept their 6' distance and so on but they all crowded in together and now we all have to pay the price for them flouting the advice they were given. My daughter in law went for a ride on her horse on Saturday which is a sole activity miles from anywhere but takes her through a corner of the golf course and it was absolutely packed not just the fairways but in the club house and the car park. I suppose the 3 weeks revue he mentioned will give us chance to check up on those calculations you mention. Its still dropping in China (so I am told) so perhaps there is hope?

Bach5G · by **Bach5G** » 2020-03-23 7:05 p.m.

It’s unfortunate That people aren’t staying home and minimizing their social contacts. This is likely to result in none of us being able to go out for any reason other than to buy food and medications.

DougHulme · by **DougHulme** » 2020-03-23 7:36 p.m.

Thats pretty much it for the whole of The uK now

Mikebmiller · by **Mikebmiller** » 2020-03-23 8:04 p.m.

I went mountain biking Saturday and while the trails are pretty empty, there were more people in the parking lot than I wanted to be around. This was at a fairly popular riding/hiking spot. I guess I will look for a more secluded trail next time.

Posaunus · by **Posaunus** » 2020-03-23 8:57 p.m.

I've been very impressed by the response of the Trader Joe's grocery chain here in California. [I presume they are doing similar things at all their U.S. stores.]

• They are now open from 9:00am until 7:00pm.

• They are limiting the number of customers in the store at any time (line up outside the store, 6 feet apart, and enter – upon invitation from an employee – only when another customer leaves).

• Between 9:00am and 10:00am priority enter is given to "seniors" (age >65) - they go into a separate entry cue.

• You are offered a squirt of hand sanitizer (by an employee) when you enter and leave the store.

• An employee will wipe the handle of your shopping cart with sanitizer when you enter.

• Most customers are maintaining a 6-foot separation within the store.

• The employees are constantly cleaning the shelves and displays.

• High demand items are limited to one or two per customer (noted by signage).

• No more food tastings, but otherwise all the shelves are surprising well-stocked, with lots of fresh produce, complete dairy selection, adequate meats, lots of packaged foods, ....

• If they run out of an item by day's end, it may be magically restocked by 9:00am next day.

• The employees here are universally smiling, friendly, and helpful!

In California, we are under order to stay home except when necessary (food, medicine, doctor visits, etc.) Restaurants can only serve "take-out" food, often for curbside pickup.

We're trying to go out in public only every few days – but we are now running errands (groceries, pharmacy) for some elderly friends who can't drive.

We're regularly washing our hands and faces, sanitizing hands and surfaces, maintaining "social distance" (to the extent possible), and generally trying to stay safe and healthy. It's tough, but absolutely necessary. (And I really miss playing my trombone with others!)

RoscoTrombone · by **RoscoTrombone** » 2020-03-24 5:35 a.m.

Well I was wrong! The supermarket was a lot quieter than expected and people were taking a wider berth as they passed each other.

Couldn't get everything my mum needs though so got to try somewhere else now! That's the frustrating thing

baileyman · by **baileyman** » 2020-03-24 11:13 a.m.

I redid my Massachusetts calculation for Louisiana. Grim:

I see La reported 14 deaths yesterday. That means three weeks ago they got sick. If the fatality rate is 1% then at that time maybe 1400 people got sick. The doubling time is 3-5 days, so at three days for three weeks that's a 128 multiple. So the expected infected now for La could be near 180,000. That's near 4% of the state infected. That means anyone who is not infected is at extreme risk of being infected because the infected are now so common. By Thurs or Fri it may be near 8%. By next week 16%.

The media focus on "confirmed cases" is totally misleading.

MA is a about two weeks behind LA.

Posaunus · by **Posaunus** » 2020-03-24 12:51 p.m.

Data for California confirms that the doubling time is about 3 days. We're also ready to take off to very large numbers.

We're staying home as much as possible, keeping our "social distance" when out (grocery shopping, pharmacy, ...), washing our hands regularly, disinfecting surfaces, and trying in general to stay safe.

norbie2018 · by **norbie2018** » 2020-03-24 1:30 p.m.

And if you believe the news reports, and in this case I find them very credible, bone spur in Chief wants to end what's going on in favor of sparking the economy. I hope level heads prevail.

Kingfan · by **Kingfan** » 2020-03-24 1:46 p.m.

I work in an "essential business", an auto parts store. First customer of the day came in after reading the social distancing instructions on the front door and asked "Who wrote the signs?" My boss said "Corporate". He said "It's all bullshit". He got what he wanted, checked out, and said "It's a liberal virus!". We all bit our tongues, figuring arguing with him wasn't going to change his mind and only piss him off. Funny thing is, he got a gallon of heavy duty cleaner. Bullshit, eh?

baileyman · by **baileyman** » 2020-03-24 11:36 p.m.

I expanded my calculation to all states just for kicks. BGuttman does not approve. But CA looks really good, with low infection rate together with anecdotal aggressive government. CA looks pretty lucky. Though internalize this three day doubling. The next two weeks is when everything gets ugly.

BGuttman · by **BGuttman** » 2020-03-25 12:07 a.m.

I didn't say I don't approve. I just mentioned that some of the data, particularly in my home state, seems "off". Also, I think you are spending too much of your practice time on this. We need to get those Senior dances going again! ;)

Bach5G · by **Bach5G** » 2020-03-25 12:12 p.m.

I got my CV19 lockdown beard going. Maybe I can figure out how to post a photo.

Posaunus · by **Posaunus** » 2020-03-25 2:01 p.m.

Like Bach5G, I haven't shaved for a week. (Why bother?) My wife is (sort of) OK with it. For a while, I'd guess. :roll:

But I have no idea when I'll next be able to get a haircut! :idk:

TriJim · by **TriJim** » 2020-03-25 7:32 p.m.

Me, too - three! Corona-Beard!

Burgerbob · by **Burgerbob** » 2020-03-25 7:41 p.m.

Also growing out! Just shaving the neck, that's just gross on me.

ArbanRubank · by **ArbanRubank** » 2020-03-25 8:13 p.m.

I have had a full beard for 50 years, so I guess that makes me a Prepper!

Kingfan · by **Kingfan** » 2020-03-26 12:13 a.m.

My doctor referred me to a specialist. The initial visit is just a sit down interview, no blood draw/height and weight/temperature, etc. so no reason for it to be face to face. The doctor's office said they were using Skype for visits like this, for my safety and theirs. I checked with my insurance company to verify coverage and they said all initial visits had to be IN PERSON or they wouldn't cover them. Yep, an insurance company is putting me and my doctor's entire office staff at risk. Makes no sense! I called again, insisted I talk to a supervisor and wanted an explanation of why that is was their policy. I was told that at the start of the coronavirus mess no on line visits were covered; they started allowing followup visits to be on line last week but not initial visits, sorry, no. I firmly but politely told them how stupid their rule was and why. I got a a "I'm very sorry, I agree with you, but I can't change policy". A few hours later I got a call back, the main office had just changed the policy and yes, I could use my insurance for the initial visit. Don't know if my calls had anything to do with the change, but no matter, they are now doing the right thing.

BflatBass · by **BflatBass** » 2020-03-26 12:18 a.m.

I haven't been on in a while.

All musical activity for me has shut down indefinitely. The local junior college is still teaching online but we can't do that in concert band so that's not operating. The community band rehearses and performs at a senior center which is on lockdown so that's shut down. Then the dance band performs at the same senior center but rehearses at our local music store and last week we decided to take a two week break but I think it'll be more like two months.

I'm getting pretty good at creating video collages so I'm still messing around with tbone quartet arrangements of older jazz standards and posting them on facebook and YouTube. Right now I'm actually working on a duet from Randy Aldcroft's great book of jazz duets for tenor and bass. They're quite challenging for me so about another week of practice and I should have that one up on facebook in about a week.

We don't go out to shop for essentials anymore. We buy online and have it delivered. The only thing I go out for is to walk the dogs in the morning. And since I live in California USA our governor has implemented a "stay at home" order so for all I know I get busted for walking the dogs.

Music music music

There's nothing else to do

Be careful out there. There's ppl walking around out there that are carrying this virus and don't even know it. It's a "lung eater" according to some experts and we wouldn't want to have permanent lung damage from it if we get sick.

Cheers,

Robert

ExZacLee · by **ExZacLee** » 2020-03-26 12:40 p.m.

I'm at my office gathering some tech to help with the online transition... my job is harder than most to transition this way so I'm liberating about a year's salary worth of tech.

My CD production course has been okayed to continue overdub and mix sessions in the building, but no more than two people in at a time and protocols must be strictly followed. I'm still trying to acquire PPE for students but we have the same assholes in Oklahoma buying up everything by the boxtruckload and profiteering so that's been difficult. I managed to get gloves and some virex spray (discovered in a locker in one of our studio booths.) I'm wearing balaclavas and glasses for face covering and suggesting my students do the same.

The Advanced Recording tech course was looking like a gonner (how the hell to teach this course online?) but my Division Head sprung for some audio interfaces right before they put the kibosh on spending. They've arrived, now to hope that receiving hasn't shut down and we get them soon (we're following a campus-wide shutdown order at 5pm.)

Applied lessons on zoom and skype - it's mostly applied jazz composition students, that'll be okay - I've done those lessons online before, I need to look into apps that can show what voicings i'm playing at a piano - probably through a midi cable - if anyone has used something like that please holler at me!

Advanced Jazz Arranging - similar to lessons, this won't be too difficult but we won't be able to do the big band reading session at the end of the semester. May do a remote recording on this as well.

Ensembles - this is tough and my students are generally pretty bummed about the whole thing, but particularly bummed about this. I teach the 4th big band at my school. Most of the students in that ensemble are entirely new to jazz, although I usually do end up with a few really good players who need to work on their reading or other fundamentals a bit. I always throw difficult music at them, usually stuff I've lifted off an album, and they work their butts off. I also direct a small group and I encourage students to bring in original compositions, arrangements and transcriptions they're working on. For these two groups we're going to do a remote recording where i send a backing track with click for them to record to using their phone or audio interface, hopefully get some video as well, and edit it all together.

It's been nuts... between people freaking out about the "government" coming to get their guns (and still finding some way to blame those damn librulz for a martial law that their president hasn't actually declared) and people buying up all the TP, Lysol, disinfectant wipes, and &^%^&^ flour... and 9mm ammo... it was a bit difficult to go out and responsibly prepare for this thing. We have enough food we won't have to leave the house for a bit, but I have daughter turning 1 in a few weeks and we have to postpose her birthday of course. Vegetables... I miss them. I don't want to go out more than I need to, but veggies are at the market. We just moved, no garden together yet, and I needs my produce!

Stay safe out there. Love y'all!

bimmerman · by **bimmerman** » 2020-03-27 1:44 p.m.

[quote="BflatBass"]And since I live in California USA our governor has implemented a "stay at home" order so for all I know I get busted for walking the dogs.[/quote]

Just to clarify, you are in the clear. The California order (which I'm also subject to) allows for outdoors activity (eg hiking, biking, running, dog walking, whatever) so long as you adhere to proper social distancing.

Posaunus · by **Posaunus** » 2020-03-27 2:18 p.m.

[quote="BflatBass"]And since I live in California USA our governor has implemented a "stay at home" order so for all I know I get busted for walking the dogs.[/quote]

As noted, this is not true.

Please don't aggravate the confusing situation by initiating / spreading rumors or incorrect information, even if in jest. There will always be some folks who take you seriously, and unnecessarily spread additional panic. (A panic-demic? :idk: )

It's actually fairly easy to get factual information, if you search reliable sources.

baileyman · by **baileyman** » 2020-03-27 10:09 p.m.

This just arrived via Curbed:

<LINK_TEXT text="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachm ... _FINAL.pdf">https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/CALACOUNTY/2020/03/27/file_attachments/1413054/HOO_Beaches%20and%20Trails_3.27.20_FINAL.pdf</LINK_TEXT>

LA closes beaches and hiking trails.

JohnL · by **JohnL** » 2020-03-28 1:56 a.m.

[quote="baileyman"]This just arrived via Curbed:

<LINK_TEXT text="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachm ... _FINAL.pdf">https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/CALACOUNTY/2020/03/27/file_attachments/1413054/HOO_Beaches%20and%20Trails_3.27.20_FINAL.pdf</LINK_TEXT>

LA closes beaches and hiking trails.[/quote]
There was a lot of attention given in the local media to the crowds at some beaches and on some of the trails last weekend.

DougHulme · by **DougHulme** » 2020-03-28 6:18 a.m.

That was exactly the same in the UK 2 weeks ago, loads of media attention to crowded beaches and nature trails and then on the Monday we got the no choice stay at home legislation that we have been under now for about 10 days. You cant help but feel if people had been more respectful of the recommendations we wouldnt have have got the legislation - which puts an undue pressure on a largely untrained (for this scenario) police force to enforce. Yesterday loads of pictures of wasted food in rubbish bins - all the use by dates expired on the hoarded food everyone went mad on buying... what was it my mum used to say "eyes bigger than your belly" in this case must have been walletts bigger than their belly!! There is a northern England saying that goes 'Nought as queer as folk'!... Doug

baileyman · by **baileyman** » 2020-03-28 7:09 a.m.

"use by dates". In the USA these are "sell by", where products are pulled from the shelves at that time. Meanwhile, plenty of them last for quite a long time in the house, especially in cool weather. It's often hard to convince a significant other the thing is still good and need not be replaced. One suspects the producers are rather in favor of that behavior.

DougHulme · by **DougHulme** » 2020-03-28 9:16 a.m.

I suspect so too. We have both 'Use by' and 'sell by' dates in the UK I think both, in their own way, are more beneficial to the manufacturer than the protection of the user! I'm with you on their use. That said the photographs that I mentioned in my previous post were mainly of perishable, fresh produce or foodstuffs that clearly had a short shelf life and should never have been bought in quantities that you couldnt eat in a couple of days, loafs of bread that were in short supply for instance. Comfort buying... I expect it gave a measure of assurance to the buyers for a day or two... Doug

jimtheob · by **jimtheob** » 2020-03-28 12:05 p.m.

I live in Buncombe County in western North Carolina. All concerts I was supposed to play in are cancelled and we are under a stay-at-home order.

Posaunus · by **Posaunus** » 2020-03-28 1:47 p.m.

[quote="Posaunus"]<QUOTE author="BflatBass" post_id="108121" time="1585196320" user_id="59">
And since I live in California USA our governor has implemented a "stay at home" order so for all I know I get busted for walking the dogs.[/quote]

As noted, this is not true.

Please don't aggravate the confusing situation by initiating / spreading rumors or incorrect information, even if in jest. There will always be some folks who take you seriously, and unnecessarily spread additional panic. (A panic-demic? :idk: )

It's actually fairly easy to get factual information, if you search reliable sources.
</QUOTE>

Sorry Bflatbass and Baileyman - it was my fault for not being clear in my language, which was very awkward. I live in California and am more than aware of the "shelter at home" and "social distancing" guidelines, and of the recent closures of beach parking lots, hiking tails, etc. due to gathered crowds there.

My response was directed only to the "busted for walking the dogs" comment, which is of course not (yet) true. We are still allowed to walk our dogs, go on solo strolls around the neighborhood, etc. without fear of getting arrested. Our lives are certainly different these days, but we are not (yet) under a martial law to "cower in place."

Yes, I miss personal social interaction, but have managed to stay in touch with family and friends via video calls and telephone. My wife and I have grown even closer over the past few weeks, since we get along well and have seen almost no one else. One of us makes a grocery shopping trip only every 5 days or so, and those are quick and relatively sanitary. I only hope that these stringent restrictions on our lives will pay dividends in terms of softening the blow of the COVID-19 virus (which has already affected 3 close friends in our area – one still on a ventilator).

What I miss greatly is making music with others. Since all my rehearsals and performances have been cancelled, I've been trying to maintain my trombone chops at home, but find it very lonesome, and hard to get motivated. "Quarantunes" leave something to be desired!

Bach5G · 2020-03-28 2:49 p.m.

I was thinking this morning that I am not a particularly social or need to get out sort of person. I’m pretty happy practicing (I’m continuing with guitar lesson via FaceTime) and I’ve got a couple of books on the go. I’ve written a couple of short stories about a character who happens to be a trombone player. One is called Ellrod in the Time of Cholera. A bit of tv, but it’s the same thing repeated, except the numbers keep rising. I’m not in any way isolated. I work at home, as is my wife, and I continue to check out FB and Trombone Chat.

For the most part, not much different, in some ways better (working from home and glad to be working!) and as long as the food supply chain holds out, I’m good.

ArbanRubank · by **ArbanRubank** » 2020-03-28 3:33 p.m.

Me too!

I miss the occasional visits to the Conservatory, Zoo, Art Museums, Symphony, Brass Band, hockey and baseball games. Other than those activities, I have always felt very comfortable staying at home. I retired months ago from playing with live groups. It was nice, but now it is done (still practicing 3-4 hours daily!).

Because of what is going on now, I no longer feel like I am acting in an anti-social manner by keeping to myself as much as I tend to do. By maintaining social distancing, I am now acting very socially responsible. Funny (ironically, not ha-ha), how something like this can change our perceptions. So perhaps we are headed for yet another "new normal". I have to wonder many more there might be!

Bach5G · by **Bach5G** » 2020-03-28 4:26 p.m.

The trouble with normal:

<YOUTUBE id="kybkiiAKMOY">https://youtu.be/kybkiiAKMOY</YOUTUBE>

sporto · by **sporto** » 2020-03-29 1:28 p.m.

All our (Uptown Rhythm Makers) club gigs were cancelled as of March 15 till further notice, even the outdoor jazz club in Balboa Park, San Diego.

JohnL · by **JohnL** » 2020-03-29 2:58 p.m.

[quote="sporto"]All our (Uptown Rhythm Makers) club gigs were cancelled as of March 15 till further notice, even the outdoor jazz club in Balboa Park, San Diego.[/quote]
They've closed down Balboa Park completely. The Sunday Spreckels Organ Concert had to go online as of last week. I think the last thing to interfere with the weekly concerts was WWII.

Leanit · by **Leanit** » 2020-03-29 3:30 p.m.

My Easter gig is the only one not yet wiped out. Its lone rehearsal was pushed back to Holy Week too. I rather expect it won't happen. This is the suck.

Mikebmiller · by **Mikebmiller** » 2020-03-29 7:26 p.m.

[quote="jimtheob"]I live in Buncombe County in western North Carolina. All concerts I was supposed to play in are cancelled and we are under a stay-at-home order.[/quote]

Hi Jim - I am just down the road in Spartanburg, but I know lots of folks in Asheville. They have a lot of good trombone players in that town.

:hi:

jimtheob · by **jimtheob** » 2020-03-30 7:37 a.m.

Wish I was one of them! Stay well.

Leanit · by **Leanit** » 2020-03-30 10:18 a.m.

[quote="Leanit"]My Easter gig is the only one not yet wiped out. Its lone rehearsal was pushed back to Holy Week too. I rather expect it won't happen. This is the suck.[/quote]

And ... there it goes now too. I can actually delete the Calendar app from my phone without consequence.

BflatBass · by **BflatBass** » 2020-03-30 2:36 p.m.

I should have done my research and even tho the comment was in jest, the timing probably was not good. Walking the dogs is fine and I'm even thinking of going back to the bike trail that runs through town to do a little jog. If it's too crowded I'll just skip it.

As was mentioned by a few in this thread, staying at home is not unusual for me either. I play in 3 bands and do miss the social aspect of that activity 3 days a week. The musical community in my area is relatively small so I see a lot of the same people from group to group. I stay in touch with them on facebook but that's not really the same.

Some think that our world will return to normal soon. If you do your research and listen to those with experience in pandemics, it is likely we 'should' continue our isolation for quite a few more months. Maybe even 'til the end of summer. If we don't we might be shooting ourselves in the foot so to speak. We will see though. Things are changing daily so....we will see.

norbie2018 · by **norbie2018** » 2020-03-30 5:17 p.m.

<LINK_TEXT text="https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.latime ... f_amp=true">https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.latimes.com/world-nation/story/2020-03-29/coronavirus-choir-outbreak%3f_amp=true</LINK_TEXT>

A simple choir rehearsal turned deadly. It sounds like a made up headline, but it is true.

multiphonic · by **multiphonic** » 2020-04-02 2:03 p.m.

A PSA from Samuel L. Jackson:

<YOUTUBE id="YUakLzaboMo">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YUakLzaboMo</YOUTUBE>

(obscenities are bleeped)

LeTromboniste · by **LeTromboniste** » 2020-04-02 5:15 p.m.

Aaand now all of July is cancelled, it all came within the last 12 hours. I'm incredibly lucky that I got asked for a transcription/edition gig for the next three weeks that will hopefully allow me to survive at least until the summer, many of my colleagues aren't so lucky.

ExZacLee · by **ExZacLee** » 2020-04-03 12:13 p.m.

One positive about all of this, every musician I know is at home. Recording opportunities abound! We're all getting better at the technology side of things, and actually taking that time to learn some new way to use the internet to collaborate.

Bach5G · by **Bach5G** » 2020-04-03 12:52 p.m.

I finally got around to installing BiaB last night and used it for my guitar lesson. You don’t know how long I had been putting that off. I installed Zoom and compared it to FaceTime. I think there’s a better camera in my wife’s MacBook.

harrisonreed · by **harrisonreed** » 2020-04-06 11:08 p.m.

<ATTACHMENT filename="DSC_0001.JPG" index="0">~~[attachment=0]~~DSC_0001.JPG</ATTACHMENT>

BGuttman · by **BGuttman** » 2020-04-06 11:24 p.m.

Where's the hole for the trombone mouthpiece? ;)

FOSSIL · by **FOSSIL** » 2020-04-07 4:15 a.m.

Is that an artistic device ?<EMOJI seq="1f601" tseq="1f601">😁</EMOJI><EMOJI seq="1f644" tseq="1f644">🙄</EMOJI><EMOJI seq="1f644" tseq="1f644">🙄</EMOJI><EMOJI seq="1f602" tseq="1f602">😂</EMOJI><EMOJI seq="1f609" tseq="1f609">😉</EMOJI><EMOJI seq="1f606" tseq="1f606">😆</EMOJI>

harrisonreed · by **harrisonreed** » 2020-04-07 4:41 a.m.

That's how we do it in Japan lol

Quick Links

Instruments

Marketplace

Coronavirus