At the start of an ordinary semester, O' Neill Hall would be full of music as the Department of Music and Sacred Music students prepare for a busy semester of recitals and concerts. And although students have been practicing in the building, Covid-19 safety protocols this semester make in-person collaborative work next to impossible. With this in mind, piano major Kate Ragan ('21) designed a t-shirt to keep her fellow music students feeling connected.
"Notre Dame music majors are already a very tight-knit community. However, during this time of social isolation, physical distancing, and uncertainty, community can be difficult to cultivate and maintain. I wanted to make a shirt this year that tangibly reminds people of their connection, belonging, and solidarity within ND's Music Department. Although making music this year may be at times strange and frustrating, we should not let the pandemic stop music-making. The words on the back of the shirt represent a kind of pledge, 'The Show Must Go On' and '#keepfightingirish,' in which we will continue to carry on, sing on, and play on regardless of how different things may be. Making music during a pandemic is a bit crazy, but the alternative is far crazier," Ragan said.
While practicing in enclosed spaces presents unique challenges, our performance majors understand the importance of safety and O'Neill's detailed practice rooms guidelines. They also know how to design a shirt that will inspire and unite the department.