From mask mandates to concert ear plugs, the live music industry will have new safety protocols to consider. 

It's official- artists have begun making plans to return to the road. So if you're a musician, you might be wondering if it's time to book some gigs. But you also might, reasonably, have a few questions about safety. Well, we're here to help.

It's been 11 years since EarPeace launched at South by Southwest in 2010. In honor of this year's virtual event, we're reminiscing on the festival's pivotal role in our origin story.

You may not be performing on stage, but that's no reason to stop practicing your instruments. We talked to classical flutist, Emi Ferguson, and NAACP Image Award-nominated jazz pianist, Marcus Johnson, about why it's important to keep playing during the pandemic and how to stay focused and motivated.

Music is good for your brain, whether you're listening to it or playing it. Improved long-term memory, better language skills, and faster reaction times are just a few of the main benefits you'll get from music exposure.

Continue reading for a deeper understanding of why music deserves to be a larger part of your life — and why your brain will thank you for it.