Music for Self-Isolation is a deeply introspective project by Canadian composer Frank Horvat, created in response to the emotional challenges brought on by the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic in the spring of 2020. Composed as a series of solo works, each piece captures the distinct emotions of isolation, fear, resilience, and hope experienced during a time of global uncertainty. Composed for a diverse array of instruments and voice, the works are designed to be performed by musicians in isolation, reflecting the solitude of the pandemic experience.
Praised for its emotional immediacy, the project gained international attention, with its simplicity resonating with performers and audiences alike. The compositions are brief yet profound, demonstrating Horvat’s ability to evoke an entire atmosphere in a short work. Music for Self-Isolation was prominently featured on various media outlets, including BBC Radio 3, CBC Music, Gramophone, and the Toronto Star, and served as a testament to the unifying power of music in times of crisis, providing a poignant reminder of art’s role in fostering connection and healing.
Phase 1: Performances
Musicians around the world were invited to play and post a performance of an M4SI composition.
Phase 2: Stories
8 musicians chronicled the trials and tribulations of living through the pandemic. Frank turned these interviews into audio documentaries / electronic compositions.
Phase 3: Album
Recording of all the M4SI compositions at an empty Roy Thomson Hall in Toronto.
Phase 4: Film
Shot during the album’s recording sessions, this documentary by Adam Crosby showcases the performances and talks without the musicians on the recording.