The Use of African American Spirituals as a Way to Combat Isolationism in Aging Rural Communities
Document Type
Event
Faculty Mentor
Malinda Haslett
Abstract
Social isolation is an increasing concern in aging rural communities, where geographic distance, limited transportation, and reduced access to communal activities often diminish opportunities for social engagement. This study explores the use of African American spirituals as a performance-based intervention to foster connection and reduce feelings of isolation among older adults in rural settings. Rooted in traditions of resilience, community, and shared identity, spirituals historically served as powerful vehicles for collective expression and solidarity. This project investigates whether these same qualities can contribute to meaningful communal experiences for contemporary audiences. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study combines historical research on the cultural and social functions of African American spirituals with empirical data collected from live performances in rural communities. Participants complete pre- and post-performance surveys designed to measure perceptions of social connection, emotional engagement, and overall well-being. Quantitative survey data provide insight into shifts in participants’ perceptions following the performance, while qualitative responses offer reflections on how the repertoire and its historical context influenced their experience of community and shared humanity. By situating African American spirituals within both their historical origins and a contemporary performance context, this research examines how historically significant repertoire can function as a tool for community engagement and social connection. The findings aim to contribute to interdisciplinary conversations in musicology, community music, and aging studies by highlighting the potential for culturally meaningful performance to address social isolation in rural aging populations.
The Use of African American Spirituals as a Way to Combat Isolationism in Aging Rural Communities
Social isolation is an increasing concern in aging rural communities, where geographic distance, limited transportation, and reduced access to communal activities often diminish opportunities for social engagement. This study explores the use of African American spirituals as a performance-based intervention to foster connection and reduce feelings of isolation among older adults in rural settings. Rooted in traditions of resilience, community, and shared identity, spirituals historically served as powerful vehicles for collective expression and solidarity. This project investigates whether these same qualities can contribute to meaningful communal experiences for contemporary audiences. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study combines historical research on the cultural and social functions of African American spirituals with empirical data collected from live performances in rural communities. Participants complete pre- and post-performance surveys designed to measure perceptions of social connection, emotional engagement, and overall well-being. Quantitative survey data provide insight into shifts in participants’ perceptions following the performance, while qualitative responses offer reflections on how the repertoire and its historical context influenced their experience of community and shared humanity. By situating African American spirituals within both their historical origins and a contemporary performance context, this research examines how historically significant repertoire can function as a tool for community engagement and social connection. The findings aim to contribute to interdisciplinary conversations in musicology, community music, and aging studies by highlighting the potential for culturally meaningful performance to address social isolation in rural aging populations.
