Music2 min(s) read
Published 16:21 18 May 2020 GMT
Perhaps now more than ever, music is offering so many of us a brief escape from the challenges we are all facing as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Whether we’re stuck in our homes, doing some gardening, or out safely enjoying a brisk walk, popping in some earbuds and selecting your favourite Spotify playlist can help to lift your spirits.
In fact, a 2016 study by Professor Kim Innes of West Virginia University’s School of Public Health found that listening to music can actually help boost your mood and well-being, ease stress, and even improve your quality of sleep.
Innes concluded that, like meditation, listening to music can be a “potentially powerful [tool] for improving overall health and well-being.”
However, with venues, recording studios, and music stores all having to close their doors, many of our favourite artists have had their revenue sources put on hold.
But now, you can help Spotify support thousands of creative professionals struggling amid the pandemic, as the streaming platform has launched their COVID-19 Music Relief project.
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Spotify has teamed up with a growing number of organisations all over the world that are helping to financially support those in the music industry currently contending with the global crisis. And here’s where you come in…
As part of their COVID-19 Music Relief project, Spotify will not only be making a donation to these incredible organisations, but will also match any and all donations made by generous members of the public - up to a whopping $10 million!
In the UK, the two charities that have teamed up with Spotify are Help Musicians and the PRS Foundation.
Help Musicians is an independent UK charity dedicated to helping professional musicians of all genres - from those just starting out to those in retirement.
Launching their Coronavirus Financial Hardship Fund, Help Musicians’ initial aim was to “alleviate some of the immediate financial pressures that many professional musicians are facing by offering one-off £500 grants.”
But after receiving in excess of 17,000 applications, Help Musicians still need your goodwill. With no clear end in sight, the charity stresses that “your support is as vital as ever”, and is asking music lovers to help continue championing the musicians whose futures remain uncertain through kind donations.
Secondly, the PRS Foundation are the UK’s leading funder of new music and talent development, and strive to answer the needs that will allow artists to progress creatively and professionally.
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Writing on their website, the PRS Foundation explains that “thanks to the Spotify Covid-19 Music Relief Project and your donations, we can continue to offer vital new music support.”
Right now, so many of us are relying on music to help mute the chaos of the crisis and put a smile on our faces. Whether you’re setting the mood for a stay-at-home date night or need motivation for a much-needed run in the park, music is helping to make all of this a lot easier.
So, if you are able to give back and to help support the COVID-19 Music Relief project - and the amazing work of Help Musicians and the PRS Foundation - please make a donation via the links provided below.
Remember, every pound you donate will be doubled by Spotify, and your generosity will help support those creative individuals to continue making music for years to come.
For more information, please check out:
Thank you!
