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The international University of the Third Age (U3A) embodies the principles of lifelong learning and personal fulfilment amongst members. The research reported in this article focused on the Choir of the U3A Hawthorn, Melbourne, Australia and the benefits perceived by members undertaking this active music engagement in non-competitive choral singing. This small-scale phenomenological qualitative case study is part of a wider study of active arts engagement by older people that began in 2008. This study was undertaken in 2013 and revealed that participants decided to join the group for a range of factors including a positive attitude to singing, convenience and a desire for social connectedness. Those interviewed considered ongoing choir membership an effective use of leisure time that also provided opportunities for shared learning and personal validation. The data were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) and are reported under two themes: music engagement and social connections. Membership of the Hawthorn U3A choir provided participants opportunities for friendship, companionship, happiness, a sense of belonging and acceptance.

Acknowledgement

This work was supported by a Deakin University Research Capacity Grant, Faculty of Arts and Education.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Dawn Joseph

Dawn Joseph is a senior lecturer in music and education studies in the Faculty of Arts and Education, Deakin University, Melbourne, Australia. She teaches in undergraduate and postgraduate courses. Dawn researches, publishes and reviews in national and international journals in music education, teacher education, African music, cultural diversity and multiculturalism and ageing and well-being. She is the immediate past Chair of the Australian Society for Music Education (Victorian Chapter) and a member of the National Committee of this association.

Jane Southcott

Jane Southcott is an associate professor in the Faculty of Education, Monash University. Her phenomenological research explores music education, cultural identity and community music. She teaches in postgraduate and pre-service programmes and supervises many postgraduate research students. She is the National President of the Australian and New Zealand Association for Research in Music Education and a member of the editorial boards of international and national refereed journals. Correspondence: Faculty of Education, Monash University, Wellington Road, Building 6, Clayton, Melbourne, Victoria 3800, Australia.
 

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