The dramatic impact of the global pandemic has reached every sector of society, and older adults are no exception. This chapter presents a mid-pandemic (October 2021) survey study of senior center managers in six cities of different sizes across the United States regarding the changes made in senior center activities since the pre-pandemic period (prior to March 2020), with a specific focus on musical activities in three categories: music-making, dance and exercise with music, and attending live music performance. Discussions also include how center managers plan to adopt changes in their programs and services, especially in musical offerings, as we emerge from the pandemic.

This chapter brings a deeper dive into the types of musical activities found in six senior centers. Music-related activities fell into four categories: (a) passive listening to music, (b) active listening to music, (c) purposeful or deliberate movement to music, and (d) music-making. Descriptions of each type of activity are illustrated with the words of those who participated in them or led them, as well as senior center managers and staff. Musical activities included concert, German, polka, and jazz bands; ukulele and guitar groups; a harmonica club; choirs and choruses; and karaoke groups. The chapter closes with insights drawn from this close-range view of music in senior centers, organized under the emergent themes of (a) active and welcoming, (b) variety and choice, (c) prevalence, (d) musical development, (e) enjoyment, and (f) connection.