This report documents the findings from academics at the Research Institute of Media, Arts and Performance (RIMAP), University of Bedfordshire who, in 2019, undertook qualitative research into the impact of Hear and Now.

Hear and Now is an award-winning, intergenerational community arts project developed over the past ten years by the Philharmonia Orchestra and Orchestras Live in Bedford.

The aim of the study was to understand the impact that an intergenerational arts and health project can have upon indicators of wellbeing, with a particular focus on the potential benefits that intergenerational practice can yield in relation to quality of life, affect, and social inclusion. The study considers these themes from a unique perspective, examining not only the participant end users, namely young people and older adults, but also the experiences of their carers and the artists and support staff who facilitated the project.

Analyses revealed that participants’ experiences of Hear and Now have been very positive, with particular reference to: positive emotions; engagement; positive relationships/new connections; meaning; sense of achievement and accomplishment.

Jenkins L., Farrer R., Aujila I. (2020). Hear and Now: The impact of an intergenerational arts and health project on participant wellbeing. Luton: University of Bedfordshire.