The ukulele experiences: Leisure and positive ageing in Taiwan

Abstract

In Shuilin Township, Yunlin County, Taiwan a group of older people have a small, well-established, active musical club called ‘Can’t Read the Words’ where they learn and play the ukulele together. This research explored the impact of their ukulele playing experiences and paid special attention to song preferences (songs they have chosen to play or sing). Data collection involved 11 semi-structured, in-depth interviews with individual healthy adults. All participants drew from their experiences in regional community music organizations to explore how music effects their daily lives. Thematic analysis of the data unveiled valuable insights. The study concluded that participants believed that their musical club provided opportunities for individuals to practice and perform before audiences, resulting in a sense of achievement and satisfaction. The aged community should view the ‘Can’t Read the Words’ musical club as an example of the positive effects playing the ukulele can have on their lives.