Music and dance

In later life we often have more time to participate in activities we enjoyed when younger, or to start learning something completely new. As well as being challenging and fun, learning an instrument, joining a choir or a dance class, has many other benefits – improved co-ordination, better breathing (singing, playing a wind instrument and dancing especially), exercise, and making new friends.

Coming together to perform a great piece of music or create a dance also bring emotional and artistic pleasures which anyone, whatever their level of experience or ability, can enjoy being part of. The social, emotional, mental and physical benefits of music and dance in later life are now so well-known that there is an increasing number of classes and groups tailored to this age group, and many professionals are actively choosing to work with us. Most ballet companies run beginners’ classes for older people as part of their outreach programmes, and choreographers love the joy and willingness which older dancers bring to the studio. It’s never too late to start!

Learning an instrument can be more of a solitary affair, so why not look for group teaching and ensembles for complete beginners? String and wind groups for new learners may be less age-specific, but whatever the age range, players will encourage and support each other. If singing is your thing, choirs come in many shapes and sizes. Some require you to read music but many don’t or will help you brush up your skills as you go. Go to performances of music you enjoy, talk to the singers, and you’ll soon get an idea of whether the choir is a good fit for you.