Name
1265 - “Sparkle in the Eyes: Musical Education for Seniors — An Experience Report”
Date & Time
Friday, July 31, 2026, 10:50 AM - 11:05 AM
Description
Telescope and Music: Stars and Notes, Longing and Melodies, Melancholy and Nostalgia. Working with music and senior learners is an exercise in discovering the deep pathways of human memory.This narrative presents the experience of guiding older students who, at an advanced age, wish to learn a musical instrument or resume their studies—an ongoing challenge within the activities of the Duettom School of Music, located in Curitiba-Paraná- Brazil.Learning music in adulthood constitutes a growing field of research within andragogy. Contrary to the traditional conception that musical learning must begin only in childhood, authors such as Knowles (1980) emphasize that adults possess distinct learning characteristics, including autonomy, intrinsic motivation, and appreciation for life experiences accumulated over time. These aspects expand the possibilities for late entry into the musical world, breaking with the notion that instrumental practice is restricted to early developmental stages.According to Jarvis (2004), the principle of lifelong education demonstrates that the formative process does not end with formal schooling but accompanies the individual throughout all stages of life. Coffman (2002) points out that musical practice among adults and seniors enhances memory, attention, and motor coordination, while also fostering a sense of belonging and cooperation in collective contexts. It also brings significant implications in the emotional and identity domains. Creech et al. (2013) highlight that adult musical learning contributes to self-esteem, personal expression, and a sense of well-being, reinforcing the perception of continuity and renewal throughout life.Memories, musical preferences, and personal trajectories become raw material for the construction of learning—a shared discovery between music mentor and student within an atmosphere of exchange and mutual growth. Such was the case of one remarkable student, who, at ninety-two years old, began his musical studies. His lifelong fascination with the stars and his experience using a telescope became, through the teacher’s analogies, a powerful educational bridge connecting observation and sound.Memories of life! Sparkle in the eyes!Musical learning becomes a return to daily meaning—beyond the act of producing sound, it represents the revival of life itself, the reawakening of memory through connective experiences.This memorial seeks to document and honor these life stories, as well as the tangible results and transformations that emerge from them.
Location Name
510C
Session Type
Short Paper Presentation
Presenter(s)
Sandra Lucia Simonato Bora