The ‘Keep Singing, Keepsake Project’ (KKP) worked with older people in residential and community settings via a weekly group singing session. It aimed to strengthen social ties, reduce loneliness, improve emotional wellbeing for participants and promoting intergenerational performance.

Following a literature review, focus group, two case studies and 19 interviews, researchers felt they met their aim. KKP helped participants to relax, breathe better and in some cases provides respite from serious illness.

Participants could express their feelings and share emotions about difficult subjects Some participants post stroke recaptured their voice. KKP prevented social isolation and loneliness by creating social networks, sharing knowledge and learning new things. Developing intergenerational performance was a slow process with older people due to their lack of confidence in performing publicly, however, links were built. It was felt that the benefits last well beyond the duration of the project.

Quinn, J., & Blandon, C. (2014). The power of songs: An evaluation of Plymouth Music Zone’s ‘Keep singing, keepsake’ project. Plymouth: Institute of Education, Plymouth University.