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Arts & Positive Ageing

Reframing ageing through the arts

In a super-aged society like Singapore’s, arts-based approaches have the potential to alleviate adversities faced by the elderly—including frailty, cognitive decline and social isolation.

Whether through learning a musical instrument, singing together or participating in intergenerational arts experiences, our programmes encourage seniors to remain socially connected, creatively engaged and emotionally fulfilled.

Through the arts, ageing is reframed as a positive journey of continued growth, meaning and hope.

Community Angklung Project

In our multi-session angklung projects, seniors learn their favourite evergreen tunes as an ensemble. A traditional folk instrument familiar to communities in this region, the angklung has proved to be an enjoyable art form even for seniors with no musical background. Every session is a sensory pick-me-up that calls for keen listening, hand-eye coordination and sharp focus. 

Each project culminates in a ‘graduation’ showcase—participants perform and share their newly-acquired craft with residents in a nearby eldercare facility, further expanding the community ties among seniors.

Sing Out Loud!

As of 2025, one in 11 Singaporeans aged 60 and above lives with dementia. Drawing on the brain’s preserved capacity for musical memory and appreciation, we conceptualised Sing Out Loud! in partnership with Dementia Singapore.

 

Across eight weeks, participants living with mild to moderate dementia come together for group singing. Supported by artist-facilitators and volunteers, these sessions create space for self-expression, reminiscence and social connection.

 

The programme culminates in a showcase at Esplanade, where caregivers witness how music can unlock memories, stories and moments of connection with their loved ones.

I just want to thank Esplanade and everyone who has gone into setting this up. My mum keeps saying that she can’t sing, but…she is always happy after the sessions, and it is a joy to share the hour with everyone. Whether we can sing or not…it’s the enjoyment that counts.

–Sharon Lam, caregiver of participant with dementia

Allow more to experience the arts

Help Esplanade to continue supporting the wellbeing of communities in need.

Esplanade is a charity and an Institution of a Public Character. Donations of $50 and above are eligible for tax deduction.