ABSTRACT

Despite their significant contribution to the Austrian economy, the situation of performing artists such as freelance musicians is frequently precarious and seasonal. In consequence, the COVID-19 pandemic has not only created an unprecedented situation in terms of economic loss but has also aggravated structural inequalities between employed and freelance musicians. The chapter shortly describes the containment and relief measures that have been taken by the Austrian government. An early explorative non-representative online survey among freelance musicians in Austria in March/April 2020 presents perceptions of the impact of COVID-19 on job portfolios and income. The results of the thematic analysis focus on the precarious and seasonal nature of freelance work, a feeling of being unemployed, the impact on the income portfolio, uncertainty, and existential fears due to the pandemic, further exacerbating inequalities during the pandemic. Suggestions for overcoming these structural inequalities after the crisis are at the end of the chapter.