Name
Hearing the Song and Singing Again: Exploring Choral Participation in Later Life
Date & Time
Thursday, July 30, 2026, 3:20 PM - 3:50 PM
Description
This study examines the role of choral participation in enhancing the social, emotional, and cultural well-being of older adults in Taiwan’s aging society. As demographic shifts accelerate, with a growing proportion of citizens aged 60 and above, there is an urgent need to explore sustainable approaches to active aging. Choirs offer not only an artistic outlet but also a community-based platform for intergenerational interaction, cultural continuity, and emotional resilience. Through a qualitative case study, the research investigates the experiences of senior choir members, focusing on their motivations, perceived benefits, and challenges encountered in participation. Data were collected via semi-structured interviews, observation of rehearsals and performances, and document analysis of relevant cultural and educational policies.Findings reveal that choir involvement fosters a strong sense of belonging, reinforces identity, and provides opportunities for self-expression. Participants reported improvements in emotional regulation, mental stimulation, and physical vitality through regular singing practices. Moreover, choirs serve as an avenue for preserving local cultural heritage, including the transmission of dialect songs and traditional repertoires, thereby strengthening cultural identity among both participants and the broader community. Policy analysis indicates that while Taiwan’s cultural and educational frameworks acknowledge the value of arts participation for older adults, there remain gaps in resource allocation, accessibility, and sustained program funding.The study concludes that senior choral programs should be integrated into community and lifelong learning initiatives, supported by policies that ensure inclusivity and continuity. It recommends strengthening collaboration between governmental agencies, educational institutions, and community organizations to create stable platforms for cultural engagement. By positioning choirs as both a social service and a cultural preservation strategy, Taiwan can address the dual challenges of population aging and cultural sustainability. The findings contribute to the broader discourse on how arts-based interventions can foster well-being in later life, emphasizing that music is not only an aesthetic pursuit but also a critical social and cultural resource.
Location Name
513C
Full Address
Palais des Congres - Montréal Convention Centre
1001, Place Jean-Paul-Riopelle
Montreal QC H2Z 1H2
Canada
Session Type
Paper Presentation
Presenting Author(s)
Mei Shan Wang