How can community music shape individual and collective well-being? A case study of a place-based initiative

Issue Addressed:There is an urgent need to investigate innovative and creativeapproaches in health promotion that support work towards health equity. Inresponse, this study explores the potential for arts, and community music specifically,to strengthen individual and collective well-being.Methods:This study used a qualitative case study methodology that involved inter-views, focus groups and ethnographic observation with participants (N=13), facilita-tor (N=1) and support staff (N=2) of an established community music initiativeconducted in an urban community. Data collection was conducted across 2023 anddata analysis drew on a socioecological framework to explore potential individual andcollective outcomes from the perspective of those involved in the initiative.Results:Findings point to outcomes across socioecological levels with researchersidentifying positive health and well-being implications for participants including joy,healing and a sense of purpose, creative self-expression, confidence, social connec-tion and contribution. Positive outcomes for the wider community were also identi-fied including developing community ties, promoting safety and shaping and sharingof collective identity. Findings suggest community-led opportunities for engagementcan support healing and empowerment for people who are marginalised, and this canenable active community participation related to challenging the status quo anddeveloping a shared set of values. Potential implications of these outcomes in rela-tion to broader societal transformations are discussed.Conclusions:This study highlights how community music, and the arts more broadlyare working in communities in ways that support potential personal, community andsocietal transformations towards health equity.So what?By developing coalitions and collaborating with diverse sectors, includingthe arts and social sectors, health promotion practitioners and researchers can har-ness the creative strengths and resources that exist within a community to supportpositive individual and collective well-being