The Joy of Playing Music

From steel bands to football fans and community choirs, making music together has always helped people connect.

Dr Haroun Shah, scientist and founder of Nostalgia Steelband, the UK’s oldest steel band, joins Dr Neta Spiro, music psychologist at Imperial College London, and Mike Poyser, a community music educator working across the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. Together they will explore why playing music with others strengthens wellbeing, builds trust, and supports community and cultural identity.

Drawing on anecdotal, historical and scientific perspectives, they will explore what happens in our brains when we sing or play together. The discussion will also unpack research that shows how group music-making can reduce loneliness and enhance social bonding, and how access to musical activities can support community health and help connect us with our past.

This is a ticketed event, advance booking will open shortly.

Visitor information

Talks and discussions are intended for an adult audience and are best suited for ages 16+.

If you have an advance ticket, please arrive at the venue 10 minutes before the start time. Your ticket gives you priority access, however, as this is a free event we overbook to help ensure a full event and your space may be reallocated. Early arrival reduces this risk.

To see the precise location of where this talk is taking place, you can use what3words.com with the code 'zealous.older.medium'. 

The lecture theatre is inside the V&A, you can enter by stairs on Level 2 or step-free access is available via the lift on the museum’s ground floor by the V&A cafe.

There are designated wheelchair seating areas and space within the theatre to accommodate assistance dogs. The theatre uses staggered seating with handrails mounted on the walls on either side of the room to assist those with limited mobility. 

To attend the Festival, please make sure to register for free. Registering is the only way to receive the latest Festival updates, a first look at the programme, and opportunities to book free tickets for popular events.