The sound of music: Classes for older adults in Philadelphia
By Mary Anna Rodabaugh
Whether you are a musical connoisseur or interested in taking up a new hobby, Philadelphia has many opportunities for older adults to take music classes.
“Three-quarters of people aged 50 to 80 say music helps them relieve stress or relax, and 65% say it helps their mental health or mood,” according to news results from the University of Michigan instruments are offered by Philly Music Lessons, 2111 E. Susquehanna Ave. Instructors will even travel to your location, so you do not have to leave the comfort of your home. Students can register to get half off their first trial lesson with discounts on package deals and income-driven rate opportunities. If you do not own an instrument, no problem. Philly Music Lessons also offers instrument rentals. To learn more, call 610-451-7883 or visit PhillyMusicLessons.com.
Settlement Music School
Settlement Music School offers older adult weekly music classes scheduled before 2 p.m. on weekdays for students ages 60 and older. Lessons are offered in Queen Village, Germantown, Wynnefield, Northeast Philadelphia and virtually through video conference. Classes include Intro to Piano and World Rhythms. To learn more, call 215-320-2601 or visit SettlementMusic.org/music/adults/classes.
School of Rock Philadelphia
This music school once was exclusively for children and teens but has expanded to offer adult lessons. School of Rock Philadelphia, located at Franklin Music Hall on 412 N. 7th St., offers an adult program for students over 18 who are looking to either improve their musical proficiency or learn to play with no prior musical experience. Instruments include guitar, bass guitar, drums, voice and piano. Prices vary and a free trial is available. To learn more, call 267-639-4007 or visit SchoolOfRock.com.
Temple University
Temple Music Prep offers a variety of music lessons and classes for adults who are 50-plus through its Center for Lifelong Learning and the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI). To learn more: 215-204-1505 (OLLI), 215-204-4866 (continuing education programs) or visit noncredit.temple.edu.
Music for people with dementia
ARTZ Philadelphia
Through ARTZ Notes, people living with dementia listen to music, make their own, and engage with other participants and the performers. ARTZ Notes features diverse music and experiences, including performances paired with conversations, interactive improvisation and sing-alongs, and conversations and movement around pre-recorded music of all genres. ARTZ Philadelphia works to improve the quality of life and wellbeing of people living with dementia and their care partners through joyful interactions around arts and culture. To learn more, call 610-721-1606 or visit artzphilly.org.
Penn Memory Center
This fun, free and interactive program is presented by the Community Artist Fellows and highlights the expressive power of music for people living with dementia. Curtis Institute, located at 1616 Locust St. in Lenfest Hall, Room 411, invites music enthusiasts to join in making, enjoying and discussing a variety of musical compositions. The class, “Creative Expression Through Music,” is accessible to people living with cognitive impairment or dementia, who attend with a caregiver or care partner. The 2025 program has ended. To learn about upcoming music lessons, call 267-624-4282 or email pennmemorycenter@pennmedicine.upenn.edu.
Mary Anna Rodabaugh is a writer, editor and writing coach.
