Finding Community Through Music – Senior Planet from AARP
Music has a unique way of bringing people together. As an avid music enthusiast and singer, I’ve spent countless hours sharing and listening to songs with others, and I know how powerful that can be. There’s something special about feeling connected through a song. At Senior Planet, we create spaces where music lovers can share that feeling and take part in programs that celebrate the songs that matter most to them.
Explore All Things Music
We’ve gathered all our music programs in one place on the All Things Music page. Here’s a look at what you’ll find:
Open Mic and Songwriting Night
Twice a month, Open Mic Night invites participants to sing, play, or simply enjoy performances by others. Suanne Zakarin shares her experience: “I love Open Mic Night with everyone. It has really helped me to sing by myself. Open Mic Night gives me unending joy, both for participating and watching.”
On alternating Wednesdays, Songwriting Night provides a space to write, share, and receive feedback on your original songs. These smaller sessions allow you to perform or simply enjoy the creativity of others.
Concert-Like Events
For those who enjoy larger gatherings, we host concert-like events throughout the year. Every quarter, the Singer-Songwriter Showcase features talented songwriters performing their original work. At the end of the year, the Senior Planet Talent Show brings everyone together for a final celebration of music. Both events are wonderful opportunities to experience live performances and celebrate the creativity of your peers.
Rhythm and Movement
Music isn’t just for listening; it’s also for feeling and moving. Our weekly drum circle helps you explore rhythm, reduce stress, and create music using items from around your home. No prior drumming experience is necessary to enjoy making sounds with others.
Once a month, you can bring that energy to our Friday Afternoon Dance Party for a fun freestyle session. Come prepared with your song requests and a water bottle, as you’ll likely break a sweat while dancing to the music.
Share and Connect!
If you love discovering and sharing music, there are even more ways to get involved. You can contribute to the Senior Planet Mixtape on Spotify by submitting your favorite songs. Your selections might end up in a playlist shared with the community.
Additionally, you can stay connected with fellow music lovers in the Music Enthusiasts group on Senior Planet Community (SPC). Engage in discussions about the artists and genres you enjoy most. To join, visit community.seniorplanet.org, log in or create a free account, and search for “Music Enthusiasts.”
Your Turn
What songs are you listening to right now? Let us know in the comments!
Nicole Alcime is the Senior Manager of Virtual Program Experiences for Senior Planet from AARP. Since joining in 2022, she has helped manage Senior Planet’s online programs. Nicole is based in New Jersey and enjoys reading in her free time, with Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers being one of her favorite books.
Music has a unique way of bringing people together. As an avid music enthusiast and singer, I’ve spent countless hours sharing and listening to songs with others, and I know how powerful that can be. There’s something special about feeling connected through a song. At Senior Planet, we create spaces where music lovers can share that feeling and take part in programs that celebrate the songs that matter most to them.
Explore All Things Music
We’ve gathered all our music programs in one place on the All Things Music page. Here’s a look at what you’ll find:
Open Mic and Songwriting Night
Twice a month, Open Mic Night invites participants to sing, play, or simply enjoy performances by others. Suanne Zakarin shares her experience: “I love Open Mic Night with everyone. It has really helped me to sing by myself. Open Mic Night gives me unending joy, both for participating and watching.”
On alternating Wednesdays, Songwriting Night provides a space to write, share, and receive feedback on your original songs. These smaller sessions allow you to perform or simply enjoy the creativity of others.
Concert-Like Events
For those who enjoy larger gatherings, we host concert-like events throughout the year. Every quarter, the Singer-Songwriter Showcase features talented songwriters performing their original work. At the end of the year, the Senior Planet Talent Show brings everyone together for a final celebration of music. Both events are wonderful opportunities to experience live performances and celebrate the creativity of your peers.
Rhythm and Movement
Music isn’t just for listening; it’s also for feeling and moving. Our weekly drum circle helps you explore rhythm, reduce stress, and create music using items from around your home. No prior drumming experience is necessary to enjoy making sounds with others.
Once a month, you can bring that energy to our Friday Afternoon Dance Party for a fun freestyle session. Come prepared with your song requests and a water bottle, as you’ll likely break a sweat while dancing to the music.
Share and Connect!
If you love discovering and sharing music, there are even more ways to get involved. You can contribute to the Senior Planet Mixtape on Spotify by submitting your favorite songs. Your selections might end up in a playlist shared with the community.
Additionally, you can stay connected with fellow music lovers in the Music Enthusiasts group on Senior Planet Community (SPC). Engage in discussions about the artists and genres you enjoy most. To join, visit community.seniorplanet.org, log in or create a free account, and search for “Music Enthusiasts.”
Your Turn
What songs are you listening to right now? Let us know in the comments!
Nicole Alcime is the Senior Manager of Virtual Program Experiences for Senior Planet from AARP. Since joining in 2022, she has helped manage Senior Planet’s online programs. Nicole is based in New Jersey and enjoys reading in her free time, with Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers being one of her favorite books.
