We created an online questionnaire that built on the Cultural Observatory’s earlyThe study was both quantitative – to determine larger trends and numbers – and qualitative, including questionnaire items and eight in-depth case studies. We received 697 responses. These provided detailed information about live music workers’ experiences and their sense-making. We found that nearly half our respondents contemplate quitting live music for good.
Our data presents a highly interconnected value chain, where single venues and other music delivery mechanisms such as cultural tourism operations and music circuit organisers serve as hubs for multiple artists. The loss of one venue has an impact on work and revenue opportunities for musicians as well as related service workers. Work creation depends on a large cohort of small and often informal employers initiating a sustained series of short-term projects.
One in four respondents said they weren’t able to continue with any elements of their business under lockdown. Even with the current easing of lockdown, which post-dates the survey, venues – which often also serve as restaurants and bars – are constrained byMost respondents have been in the industry for more than five years, but experience has proved no protection.Imperfect new digital strategies
arts24_sa Devastation! 😳