Dear YSM community,


I write today to share updates on how Yale’s latest policy changes will affect our programs. It is my hope that these developments and our continued vigilance will help bring about a return to music-making activities that our entire community can enjoy. 


Audiences 

The University anticipates that it will be possible to return to less-restrictive policies for events, gatherings, and meetings starting on Feb. 11. It is with great delight that we announce the following relaxations of audience policies for YSM events; these changes will go into effect starting on Monday, Feb. 21.

  1. Any Yale ID holder or external community member who is up to date with their COVID vaccination will be allowed to attend YSM concerts. We warmly welcome back your partners and spouses; however, please note that unvaccinated children are not yet allowed on campus. Concertgoers must reserve seats online in advance, are required to show their vaccination card and ID at the door, and must wear an ASTM or N95 equivalent mask.
  2. The capacity of Woolsey Hall will be increased from 250 to 400. The capacity of Sprague Memorial Hall will be increased to 250. Capacity limits will also be in place for Sudler Hall and other recital venues. Recitals in the Orchestra Rehearsal Hall can only be attended by individuals with ID access to the Adams Center and the four external guests of degree recitalists. We will revisit these caps as public-health conditions continue to improve.

Visitors 

Effective Feb. 11, the University will adjust the visitor policy to facilitate greater activity on campus. School of Music leadership will meet next week to determine the extent to which the University’s updated visitor policy will apply to YSM activities for the spring semester.

Masking

We continue to negotiate with the University about the eventual relaxation of mask-wearing in certain situations and are in the process of seeking permission for voice degree students to have unmasked lessons with their primary teacher, and for recitalists to be unmasked for their degree recital. We will keep you informed about developments.


As the University begins to relax some protocols, it is critical for each of us to scrupulously follow the health and safety guidelines that remain in effect; additionally, I implore each of you to continue to exercise similar vigilance in your personal activities, particularly related to social gatherings and travel. Maintaining these layers of protection will enable us to continue to relax restrictions in the months ahead.


Warmest regards and heartfelt thanks to every member of our YSM community.

Robert Blocker
Henry and Lucy Moses Dean of Music