We will be keeping members informed as we know more about how the different stages and tiers are likely to affect musicians and their workplaces. Photo credit: Shutterstock
In Scotland, there will be four-stages to moving out of lockdown, followed by everybody moving to Tier 3 and then gradually easing down through 2 and 1 where it’s deemed safe to do so.
The last week in April should then see a wider re-opening which would include non-essential retail, gyms, hairdressers and so on, as well as non-essential work in people’s homes. This should allow private teaching premises to re-open and in-person lessons to resume in students’ homes. However, more details for that stage will be delivered in mid-march.
We will be keeping members informed as we know more about how the different stages and tiers are likely to affect musicians and their workplaces.
Continuing to call for revised and realistic performing arts guidance
MU Acting Regional Organiser for Scotland and Northern Ireland commented on the move:
“We welcome the announcement from the First Minister today and are pleased that there seems to be some light at the end of the tunnel. We will now be seeking clarity from the Government on what this means specifically for musicians and will continue to call for revised and realistic performing arts guidance.
“This must not include blanket bans on musical performance, but should differentiate between different types of musical activity and allow those performances that can be made safe to resume in line with the easing of other restrictions.”
A summary of the four-stages
The stages are as follows:
- Phase 1 (yesterday, 22 February) early learning, childcare and schools open for Primary 1-3 pupils and senior phase pupils for essential practical work. Limited increase in the provision for vulnerable children. Care homes opening to facilitate meaningful contact between relatives/ friends and residents.
- Phase 2 (unlikely before 15 March) more school reopening and non-contact outdoor group sports for 12-17 year olds. Socialising rules eased, to allow outdoor meetings of 4 people from 2 households.
- Phase 3 (at least three weeks later, possibly 5 April) Stay-at-Home requirement removed. Third and final phase of schools reopening if required. Places of worship can open on a restricted numbers basis. Essential retailers list expanded slightly and click-and-collect resumes for non-essential retail.
- Phase 4 (possibly 26 April) Limited other easing within Level 4, including permitting non-essential work in people’s homes. Return to variable Levels approach. This will enable the graduated opening up of economic and social activity.