How intergenerational music sessions can extend to family, friends and care home staff

An intergenerational music session at a local care home in Chester demonstrated how the benefits of shared musical experiences extend far beyond the children and residents taking part. The session became a powerful reminder that music has the ability to connect entire families and strengthen relationships across generations.

Led by Lauren, the session brought together children brought by local childminders and the care home's residents for a morning of singing, movement and shared musical experiences. As the session was underway, one of the residents, Albert, was unexpectedly joined by his daughter and her husband, who had arrived to visit him.

Rather than simply observing, Albert's family were warmly welcomed into the session and quickly became involved alongside the children and residents. They watched Albert engaging with the music, interacting with the children and enjoying the shared activities, experiencing a side of him they had not expected to see during their visit.

The family's reaction highlighted one of the often-overlooked benefits of intergenerational music. Albert's daughter was delighted to discover her father taking part in this regular activity within the care home and, after taking part herself, commented, "Can I come every week?" She had been so moved by the atmosphere and by seeing her father participating so enthusiastically that she wanted to become part of the experience herself.

Her response reflected something that is seen regularly during these sessions. Although the activities are designed to bring together young children and older adults, the positive impact frequently extends to family members, friends and visitors who happen to be present. Watching a loved one laugh, sing, engage with children and become immersed in the music can offer families a precious opportunity to connect in a different way and create new shared memories.

The sessions also provide valuable moments for care home staff. Seeing residents actively participating, communicating and responding positively through music often reveals abilities, emotions and interactions that may not be evident during everyday routines. When staff members join in alongside residents, children and families, the experience becomes even more inclusive, strengthening relationships throughout the care home community.

This session demonstrated that intergenerational music is about far more than bringing together two age groups. It creates opportunities for families to reconnect, encourages shared experiences between residents and visitors, and fosters a sense of community that includes everyone in the room. By welcoming family members into the music-making, what began as a planned intergenerational session became a truly multigenerational experience.