String of Hearts has developed two schemes to support older adults through music in their own homes: music phone calls and home visits.

These schemes have been informed by five years' experience and research by String of Hearts into new approaches to connect older adults who are isolated and living with long-term conditions, bringing music into their homes and building lasting relationships in our community.

Music Phone Calls
A free music phone call service for older adults who are not able to access social or creative activities in person. The service aims to support connections, self-expression and creativity. Through a series of music phone calls with a professional musician, participants can explore their favourite music, sing and write lyrics or poems based on their interests, with the aim of bringing joy, self-expression, and exploring their creativity. The phone calls are conducted using a landline or mobile phone, and are suitable for individuals who do not have internet access.

Music Home Visits
This scheme connects older adults who are housebound with local musicians, building intergenerational relationships through music in the home. Home visits are shaped around participants' interests, including music-making, conversation and songwriting - fostering joy, connections and sense of purpose for residents who experience barriers to accessing creative activities in the community. Each visit is tailored to participants' interests and needs, with no musical background required.

To register interest in the next phase, please complete this contact form.

Funders
String of Hearts is grateful to our generous funders for their generous support in delivering these schemes across Trafford and Manchester in 2024-25:

Power of Music Fund, Arts Council England, We Love Manchester Stronger Communities Fund, The Radcliffe Trust, Granada Foundation.