Songs & Scones: Creating Connection Through Music Across the UK

“Usually, the highlight of my week is just a trip to Morrisons to see people. Songs & Scones gives me real company, conversation, and music to look forward to.” Participant at Songs & Scones in Medway. 

Our Songs & Scones programme delivered in libraries supports the National Year of Reading 2026 — a UK‑wide initiative led by the Department for Education and the National Literacy Trust to encourage people of all ages to read for pleasure, recognise the social and wellbeing benefits of reading, and re‑establish libraries as welcoming, community‑focused cultural spaces. 

Manchester:  

At Bridgewater Hall, Songs & Scones forms part of the venue’s wider commitment to learning, participation and community engagement. These relaxed daytime concerts invite people into one of Manchester’s most iconic music spaces. 

Tickets usually sell out within just a couple of days of release, highlighting how valued and well‑loved the programme has become among local communities. 

The impact of the sessions is often felt long after the music ends. At Christmas the team received a handwritten card from an attendee, Jacqui, offering a deeply moving insight into what Songs & Scones at Bridgewater Hall means to her. 

“Thank you so much for what you have done for me – made a very lonely lady happy for a couple of hours at Songs & Scones. I cannot thank you enough.” 

For Jacqui, Songs & Scones had initially been a step outside her comfort zone. She came along by herself and felt nervous at first, unsure of what to expect. Over time, however, the welcoming atmosphere and shared enjoyment of live music helped her to connect with others. 

Medway:  

In Medway, Songs & Scones has become a much‑loved feature of the local library network.  

Delivered at Chatham Library, Hempstead Library, Luton Library, Lordswood Library, Twydall Library and Walderslade Village Library, the sessions are hosted in accessible, community‑focused spaces and attract people who might not otherwise attend live music events. 

Audiences enjoy a wide range of musical styles, from folk and jazz to classical and global traditions, and many attendees say the sessions are a highlight of their month.  

The impact goes beyond the music itself. Participants regularly speak about feeling more confident, more connected, and more likely to return to their local library for other activities. The programme has helped turn libraries into lively social hubs, strengthening community ties through shared cultural experiences. 

“When I was younger, there used to be places you could go to dance with all kinds of music, and everyone just joined in. Events like this bring a bit of that back.” – Songs & Scones Participant 

Northern Ireland: 

In Northern Ireland, Songs & Scones has created warm, welcoming spaces where people of all ages come together through live music and shared conversation, promoting wellbeing for rurally isolated older people. Monthly sessions have been taking place since October 2025 in Eglinton Community Centre and the Roe Valley Arts & Cultural Centre, with different musicians performing each month. 

The sessions in Eglinton are also attended by children from the local nursery school, bringing together older residents, families and children in the one space. These concerts highlight the intergenerational power of the programme, using music not only to entertain, but to spark conversation and genuine connection. 

Nottinghamshire:  

In Nottinghamshire, Songs & Scones is delivered in partnership with Inspire Culture through libraries in Hucknall and Retford. These sessions are particularly valued by older audiences and people living with dementia, many of whom attend alongside carers, friends or family members. 

For carers, the sessions offer something just as important: a chance to pause, enjoy live music together, and feel part of a supportive community. 

“Brought 4 of our residents here and they have all absolutely loved it and enjoyed a great time out within the community. Such a lovely activity for those with dementia. Great band – so friendly” – Carer and Songs & Scones Participant  

Across libraries, community centres and concert halls, Songs & Scones shows how powerful live music can be when it’s paired with a warm welcome and time to connect. What may seem like a simple afternoon of music and conversation can be life‑affirming — reducing loneliness, building confidence and helping people feel part of something. 

With your support, Live Music Now can continue to deliver programmes like Songs & Scones, reaching more communities, supporting more musicians, and ensuring that everyone, regardless of age or circumstance, has access to the joy and wellbeing that live music brings. 

If you’re able to, please consider making a donation today. Your support helps us keep music at the heart of communities across the UK.