From the start of COVID-19, we introduced our Quarantine Singing Circle – an alternative way to keep all of our program participants and supporters engaged, in-community and feeling less isolated, while spreading some joy and fun at the same time.

Our normal pre-COVID week schedule:  

Rock For Vets approx. 25 people every Monday
American Gold Star Manor Voices approx. 30 people every Tuesday and Thursday
Century Villages at Cabrillo approx. 10 to 15 per people every Tuesday
The Barbara Alpert Jewish Community Center approx. 30 people every Wednesday
Engage Singers approx. 20 people every Friday

During this time, when we can no longer teach 120 people each week in person, we have had to think of alternative ways to “operate” so we have created “Electronic Relief” otherwise known as “E-Relief”.

Our current COVID week schedule:
We create 3 to 4 Quarantine Singing Circle videos each week. These videos are designed to help our current members continue to sing along with the familiar face of Malek Sammour (The Rock Club’s Music Is The Remedy Vocal Coach) or Frank McIlquham each time.  Since the majority of our choral program participants are seniors, many are self isolating and more apprehensive and probably a little scared. The Singing Circles offer some normalcy and familiarity to all.

We have now also started to introduce, on an ad-hoc basis, the Quarantine Guitar Corner, where we invite select musicians to show case their talents and to give them some online teaching lessons.  Our Rock For Vets band meets once/twice a week via ZOOM. This is a great way for everyone to keep each other motivated, supported and in touch.   Members “zoom in” as and when they feel the need.   We can certainly say that at this time that we are definitely   “More Than Just Music”!!!