During the pandemic, the University of Virginia’s choral ensemble, University Singers, and faculty conductor Michael Slon have had to get creative, holding class sessions outdoors and under new restrictions to promote health and safety.

They have broken into smaller groups and now hold class in locations such as the Pavilion VII garden, shown here, treating passerby to some beautiful music as they practice. The students wear masks at all times, and are spaced 10 feet apart to promote safety while still singing together.

Students in University Singers come from many different UVA schools and departments, including both undergraduate and graduate programs. The ensemble is open to any student by audition and is offered as a for-credit curricular class. As a class, the session is exempt from the current five-person limit placed on gatherings.

In a normal year, the students would perform in the community, around the country and even around the world.

Original Publication: UVAToday

Sanjay Suchak

Photographer

Office of University Communications