Our Music Making Outreach Sessions feature our selected Musician Partners facilitating and instructing groups of older adults to play percussive instruments and sing along to a few familiar favorite tunes from a variety of genres – without the worrying about their level of skill or knowledge. These sessions also allow for a great deal of rhythmic improvisation, similar to what we see in recreational drum circles. As Jazz Drummer and drum circle advocate Remo Belli said, “In the drum circle, people who are not necessarily professional musicians come together to create an improvised composition that becomes the score for their own lives.” Indeed, these sessions are about the experience of making music together and in the moment, more than they are about the outcome. We want to focus on the moments shared in creating together. Keeping it all about the “right now.”

Understanding the variation in cognitive and physical capabilities in the older adults we serve, we tailor these Music Making Outreach Sessions to meet the needs of active independent living groups as well as assisted living and memory care groups. In addition to the sheer joy that comes from making music, the creative expression aspects promote health benefits and an increase in social engagement within the groups. Additionally, studies suggest that such recreational music-making opportunities strengthen the immunological profiles of participants and improve cognitive function in individuals with mild cognitive impairment and dementia.

We have facilitated these interactive programs since 2014 with over 100 different groups and have witnessed that the simple act of keeping time by tapping a rhythm stick or playing one of our provided frame drums inspire a sense of belonging and achievement in our program participants. The simple activity of making music together fosters the feeling in those who participate of confidence and connectedness – allowing them to say to themselves:  “Yes, I can do this, and I am an integral part of this group making music together!”

For 15 years, Music for Seniors has connected area musicians with older adults through live and interactive music programs designed to engage, entertain and educate seniors – promoting health and wellbeing, reducing isolation and enriching the lives of all participants. 

We can only grow and build momentum with your help and support – donate today.