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How has COVID-19 affected the uptake of online music education?

Burl Wytchard

COVID-19 has undoubtedly had a significant impact on the uptake of online music education. While some may argue that this pandemic has led to a surge in interest and adoption of digital learning, I firmly believe that the effect has largely been negative.

First and foremost, online music education lacks the personal touch and interactivity that traditional, in-person classes offer. Musicians who are used to playing in groups or receiving immediate feedback from their instructors may find it difficult to adapt to the virtual format. Moreover, the absence of social interaction and real-time collaboration may dampen the motivation and enthusiasm of both students and teachers.

But beyond these drawbacks, the real issue with online music education during this pandemic is the systemic neglect of musicians and the arts as a whole. While schools and universities rush to shift their courses online, they often leave behind the very people who make those arts programs possible. Musicians, particularly those who rely on gigs or performances to make ends meet, have seen their livelihoods evaporate in the wake of COVID-19. Without a steady income, many of them simply cannot afford to pursue online music education or pay for the expensive equipment necessary to produce high-quality music from home.

Additionally, the widespread economic fallout from the pandemic means that funding for music education initiatives and nonprofits has been severely slashed. Even prior to the pandemic, the arts have always taken a backseat to other, more "practical" subjects in terms of government spending and public support. Now, as the world grapples with an unprecedented crisis, the arts community is suffering the most.

In conclusion, COVID-19 has certainly changed the landscape of music education, but not in the way that some may think. The forced transition to online learning has exposed the pre-existing inequalities and injustices that musicians and the arts have faced for years. As a society, we must prioritize and support the arts now more than ever, if we hope to overcome this crisis and emerge stronger on the other side.