Creative Ways to Connect Through Music During a Pandemic
Music can help us to reconnect while staying at home during the pandemic. Here are some ideas for sharing music with your loved ones to spark new conversations, have fun, and release energy!
Music Memories
Most of us have a meaningful story to share about our favorite songs; listening to those songs together can be a way to learn more about your loved ones’ past.
For example, recently I asked a family member to share a song that connects them to a memory from the past. After thinking for a moment, she talked about working in Yellowstone National Park during the 1988 wildfires. While driving with her friend, she kept running into obstacles and getting more and more frustrated! Then, “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” by Bobby McFerrin came on the radio. The lyric “when you worry, you make it double” always takes her back to that time, reminding her that everything will turn out okay in the end.
Music Conversation Prompts
Simple questions about music can bring unexpected conversations. What song reminds you of summer? What was your first concert? How did you listen to music growing up-records, cassettes, CDs? Come up with some of your own, or follow our Instagram for more!
Musical Talent Show
Whether you play professionally or sing in the shower, we all have musical talents. Plan a musical talent show evening with your loved ones. You can video chat with other friends and family for an added bonus! Some talents for a wide range of skills:
Play one of your favorite songs on your instrument
Play the chords to a song and have your loved one sing along
Sing your heart out to a karaoke track on YouTube
Put on an upbeat track and show off your dance moves
Keep the beat going with pots and pans, clapping, or tapping your toes
Follow the Leader Dancing
Have a dance party! Designate a spot in the room for the “dance leader.” When someone jumps in that spot, the rest of the group will follow their moves. Give it a try with Earth, Wind, & Fire, or choose a favorite artist of your own.
Let’s Groove – Earth, Wind, & Fire
Image description: five Earth, Wind & Fire members arranged in a semi-circle. They are wearing bright silver jumpsuits, some with steep v-necks. One is wearing large circle glasses and another a silver headband. They are looking down, have their arms around each other, and are smiling and laughing exuberantly. In between them is a rainbow and a small person dressed in a silver jumpsuit dancing on a surfboard.