Group music participation by adults in middle and older age : wellbeing and impact of social isolation during COVID-19

Changing demographics mean that many people in middle and older age pursue leisure activities, including active participation in music. This research explored affordances of group music participation, the impact of disruption of in person activities on wellbeing due to COVID-19 social distancing restrictions and variations in these with age. An online survey and focus groups were conducted with amateur musicians in the UK. Adults over the age of 45 were targeted in the survey. All were active in community group music making, with a mean length of experience of ensemble playing of 30 years. They rated the impact of group membership and of social distancing on social, physical and emotional wellbeing, and described their experiences of using remote methods to meet or rehearse. Older (66+) people reported more benefits from music participation on physical health and musical engagement. Respondents aged 65 or under, and members of self-organised groups were impacted more by being unable to meet, and were more likely to keep in touch by other means. Over 50% of the respondents participated in remote rehearsals or meetings which provided opportunities for social contact, learning, or planning. This study revealed differences in the experiences of people of different age cohorts, and in different music group contexts. These findings have implications for the role of group music in healthy ageing, highlighting music participation benefits in transitioning to later life stages.