Bringing different generations together in music-making – an Intergenerational Music Project in East London

Abstract

This article describes an intergenerational music project that took place as part of a bigger project, entitled the Music for Life Project that explored the social and emotional benefits of music participation for people over 50. The intergenerational project was led by two music leaders from the Guildhall School of Music & Drama. The participants involved were pupils from two primary schools in East London and seniors from two housing schemes, also in East London. The project culminated in a concert at the Pit Theatre, the Barbican Centre. Interviews and written responses from pupils and senior participants, as well as one music leader and teaching staff from the two schools highlighted many benefits of the initiative that brought different generations together through music such as opportunities to socialise and collaborate, enhanced wellbeing, enjoyment in being challenged and in developing (new) musical skills and appreciation of each other’s role in the group.