From residents finding the confidence to sing solo to familiar melodies sparking memories, laughter and conversation, Live Music Now Northern Ireland’s 2026 Arts and Older People Programme has demonstrated the power of music to bring people together.
Supported by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland and Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, the programme brought professional musicians into three Belfast settings – Sydenham Court, Cullingtree Meadows and Bruce House – for three eight-week residencies. Through singing, percussion, movement and shared musical experiences, musicians worked with residents and care staff to reduce isolation, support wellbeing and build meaningful connections, with a particular focus on older people living with dementia.
100% of residents who completed the evaluation reported feeling less lonely, while 100% agreed they felt respected and valued during sessions.
Sydenham Court
At Sydenham Court, musicians Amanda St John and Jared Green worked with residents to create an inclusive space where everyone could participate in their own way, and developing a repertoire of resident’s favourite songs. Familiar melodies sparked memories and conversation, while singing, movement and percussion brought energy and laughter. As the weeks progressed, residents who had initially been reluctant to sing began performing solo sections at the final celebration.
One resident reflected on the impact of the sessions:
“I get more worried as I get older, but coming here, if you’re feeling a bit sad or worried, it takes all the worry away.”
Emily Barrett, a member of staff at Sydenham Court, also noticed a change in residents’ confidence and social interaction:
“A hugely positive experience for both tenants and staff within Sydenham Court. The musicians were engaging, approachable and skilled at adapting sessions to meet the needs and abilities of the tenants. It was wonderful to see tenants push themselves out of their comfort zone and do solos.”
Cullingtree Meadows
At Cullingtree Meadows, 21 residents took part in eight weeks of music-making with Amanda and Jared, growing in confidence as they shared favourite songs and explored different ways to participate.
The programme also supported care staff to build their skills. Activities Coordinator Collette developed her confidence in using music as part of everyday care, achieving the Badge of Excellence in Musical Care and confidently led part of a session herself.
The programme’s impact extended beyond the sessions, helping staff develop practical skills to continue using music to engage residents and support their wellbeing.
Bruce House
At Bruce House, musicians Cindy Yung and Jared Green worked with 18 residents, including people living with more advanced dementia and those who are nonverbal. Sessions were tailored to individual interests and abilities, demonstrating how music can create moments of connection even when verbal communication is limited.
Familiar church tunes and songs from The Sound of Music offered opportunities for enjoyment and recognition, while singing, percussion and movement ensured everyone could participate.
Activities Coordinator Elaine became an enthusiastic partner in the sessions, encouraging residents through dancing, call and response and playful musical exchanges. She also achieved her Badge of Excellence in Musical Care.
As the weeks prgressed, residents who would usually return to their rooms or sleep at that time of day began staying in the activity room after sessions, chatting and socialising with one another and the musicians.
As Elaine explained:
“These residents need music, it is just so important for them.”
The impact: less loneliness and more connection
Across all three settings, the programme demonstrated the difference that regular, high-quality musical experiences can make to older people’s lives.
100% of residents who completed the evaluation reported feeling less lonely since taking part.
100% of residents agreed they felt respected and valued during the sessions.
Three eight-week residencies brought participatory music-making into Belfast care and supported living settings.
Two Activities Coordinators achieved the Badge of Excellence in Musical Care, helping embed music within everyday care practice.
Staff reported seeing residents who would not normally participate in group activities becoming actively involved in singing, percussion and conversation. Often it was the smaller moments that mattered most: a smile of recognition, a spontaneous dance, a familiar lyric remembered or a resident choosing to stay and chat with others.
A musical legacy that lasts beyond the final song
While each residency concluded with a special celebration bringing together residents, staff, family and friends, the programme was designed to leave a lasting legacy.
Care staff across all three settings were introduced to Take Note, Live Music Now’s practical resource featuring 100 ideas for using music with older people, helping them incorporate musical activities into everyday routines. At Cullingtree Meadows and Bruce House, the Badge of Excellence in Musical Care provided further opportunities for staff to develop their skills and confidence.
From residents discovering the confidence to sing a solo, to an ex-DJ rediscovering the joy of dancing and percussion, and familiar songs helping people living with advanced dementia to engage and communicate, each residency told its own story of what music can make possible.
At Sydenham Court, one family member reflected:
“It is so lovely to see my sister coming out of her shell like that.”
Through the support of the Arts Council of Northern Ireland and Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, the 2026 Arts and Older People Programme has created joyful moments, strengthened relationships and given staff the tools to keep the music going.
