In the midst of COVID-19, there is so much uncertainty, chaos, rumor, and fear. For the past week, I’ve been seeing so much information being posted and shared and re-posted and shared again. It can be overwhelming. Even writing this was overwhelming. But it’s so important to sift through and find what you need.
I’ve compiled a list of the resources out there that support freelance artists. I hope this list narrows things down a bit for you. I suggest bookmarking these pages and going through them slowly over the next month or more. Also, keep in mind that some of these resources are part of larger organizations that have been providing support for years, and will continue to do so even after this crisis. In your research, take time to notice not just how they can help you now, but how they can help you in the future. I’m hopeful that, although for many artists this is a moment of sheer panic, we will come out stronger, more informed, and more connected to the communities that support us.
This list started out as a google doc and turned into an entire webpage with tons of resources for freelance artists everywhere! Props to the artist advocates and freelancers who put it together to begin with, including Hannah Fenlon, Ann Marie Lonsdale, and Abigail Vega.
Definitely a great resource for opera singers with tons of links and resources to check out. There is a lot to look at, including a list of companies that are cancelling and postponing engagements, a resource tracker, advocacy, and more.
360 of Opera has put together a list of resources for both musicians and music lovers to connect, work, create, and connect in a time when all of that seems almost impossible. This list includes teaching artists available for online lessons, online fitness coaches, live opera streams going on for the next month, and relief funds for artists.
CERF+ is a 501(c)(3) public charity that has been serving artists for over 30 years. While they mostly serve artists in craft disciplines, there is a lot of information and resource for all types of freelance artists.
If you’re a freelancing female who doesn’t know about ‘Freelancing Females,’ then I highly suggest you check them out. This group has some of the consistently helpful information on everything. I’m not surprised that they’ve got us covered when it comes to COVID-19. Its to-the-point, no nonsense, and actually helpful information.
WOW. Major props to this small but mighty NYC-based company for their swift action. Bare Opera is accepting donations and submissions to support Bare Opera artists, past and present, who have suffered financially at the hand of the current COVID-19 crisis. Any opera or performing contract that has been severed and unpaid due to the COVID-19 outbreak is eligible through their relief fund fundraising efforts for up to 75% reimbursement. Go to the website and follow the steps to apply for reimbursement.
Americans for the Arts is an ongoing resource with an extremely helpful webpage dedicated to helping artists. Their website includes links to webinars, grants, and posts that will be helpful as you navigate how to proceed.
Here is a comprehensive resource all about teaching online lessons that was put together by a teacher based in Maryland. Thank you to Jenni!
This is a great list of pages that you can check out with TONS of resources. Artist Trust is an organization that provides support to artists specifically serving Washington State communities, but their resource page is good for artists anywhere and is a simple list of sites to check out.
The Musicians Foundation provides financial assistance to musicians and their families in times of need, crisis or transition. This non-profit has been around since 1914, so they are no stranger to helping musicians in times of need. Unfortunately, as of 3/13/20 they have placed a hold on any incoming applications. This makes it on the list since it is specifically for musicians and is an ongoing organization that you should bookmark for the future.
One of our favorite new blogs, Middle Class Artist, put together a list of companies who’ve been “doing it right” when it comes to cancelling their upcoming shows. While it may not help you get a job, it’s a good read for some inspiration of companies to remember when looking for auditions and who you may want to work for in the future. (Don’t forget–there IS a future that involves you performing again! ❤️)
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