Basilica Soundscape 2021 canceled over COVID-19 safety concerns

Basilica Soundscape has canceled its 2021 edition due to concerns over the continuing threat of COVID-19. Earlier this year, the festival announced it would be holding a more intimate, limited capacity version of the event, and would feature performances from William Basinski, Moor Mother, Tomberlin and Circuit des Yeux. However, even after cautious planning, the festival organizers have released a statement explaining why they’ve made the decision to cancel this year:

“Over the last month, we have been wary of the extent to which COVID-19 is reemerging with new variants and breakthrough cases. Furthermore, one of our SoundScape artists, William Basinski, has recently decided to cancel his entire fall tour due to increasing health and safety concerns surrounding COVID-19. 

Simultaneously, our food vendors and various tech and photo staff have had to withdraw due to COVID related obstacles, which does not bode well for an event that typically provides our audience and partners with a hospitable, immersive environment that embodies the ease and magic of Basilica SoundScape. 

It is for these reasons that Basilica Hudson feels it is best to cancel Basilica SoundScape at PS21 this September. Full refunds for ticket purchases and camping passes will be automatically issued.”

As a nonprofit, Basilica Soundscape also emphasizes that this is a harsh blow to the festival’s ability to continue operating, and they have included a donation button along with the statement for those who wish to donate.