Motivation, challenges, skills and understanding: Musicians’ perspectives on working in a curated performance programme for older adults in aged care and community settings

Abstract

Musicians have long worked with older adults and vulnerable populations across the lifespan to support emotional and social well-being. However, there is limited research concerning the experiences and preparation of professional musicians who work with social aims transitioning to working as community musicians. This project is unique in its attempt to further understand the motivations, skills and understanding of professional musicians working with social aims in a social outreach programme. Utilizing qualitative case study methodology, this study identified musicians’ experience, motivations and required skills to present a programme curated by an Australian performing arts organization for older adults, residents and care staff in aged care facilities and community centres. The participating musicians navigated challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic such as performing online, in PPE, and the unexpected emotional impact of working with vulnerable populations. The participating musicians addressed these challenges through developing a sense of connection through a digital medium, adaptability and by fostering a sense of shared hospitality. Additional research is needed to further explore and understand the experiences of community musicians’ skills, expertise and development.