When I see a note I like, I play it: Musical identity enacted in a community orchestra

The benefits of musical participation at an older age are undeniable and playing an instrument at an older age benefits both physical and mental health and provides positive socializing opportunities. This study considers the experience of participating in a community orchestra as either a complete beginner or a ‘returning’ player at an older age. The research, qualitative case studies, employed a phenomenological approach. Participants are all members of Squawkestra, a community orchestra based in the northern suburbs of Melbourne, Australia. All the participants were over the age of 55 and retired or near retirement. An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis was employed and various themes emerged. A major theme was the re-shaping of identity not possible previously, which Squawkestra enabled. Inter-linked with this was the ‘hankering’ to play an instrument, resolved through active participation in a beginner orchestra, and the associated issue about who has the right to self-identity as a musician.