Long COVID, opera, and performing artists

“Vocologists and singing voice instructors . . . should be aware that the amount of time a singer can practice or perform in one sitting may decrease substantially following a SARS-CoV-2 infection.”

• Dove et al., Journal of Voice (2022)^{Footnote 61}

COVID and Long COVID can have specific implications for singers and other professionals who often rely on their voices (e.g., instructors, coaches, directors, actors, stage managers). Amidst 200+ potential symptoms, from muscle weakness to memory loss,^{Footnote 62} respiratory symptoms are common, and can cause significant voice issues.^{Footnote 63} Research suggests 25% of COVID-19 patients are impacted vocally, and approximately 70% of those issues become long-lasting.^{Footnote 64}

Singers have described drastic vocal changes, saying they “lost about an octave,” “can hardly do a full phrase,” and felt that “it's like learning to sing all over again.” These vocal changes caused economic impacts: “Since I've been unable to work due to this sickness, paying for voice lessons again . . . it's like going into debt all over again.”^{Footnote 66} As with other aspects of Long COVID, these issues disproportionately affect those assigned female at birth.^{Footnote 67} Influenza and the common cold can also cause nerve damage to the larynx, although COVID-19 carries increased risks.^{Footnote 68}

“Singers and their teachers need to be aware of this risk and continue to take extra measures to avoid getting sick.”

• Emerich and Reed, Journal of Singing (2025)