Encore Creativity

Encore Creativity for Older Adults’ guiding mission is to provide an excellent and accessible artistic environment for older adults. We seek to give all adults 55 and older, regardless of experience or ability, the opportunity to perform under a professional artist. Encore is the nation’s largest choral arts organization for adults 55 and over. With over 30 ensembles (and growing!) nationwide, and over 1300 singers ages 55 to 99, Encore is a leading organization in the field of creative aging. Encore’s programs include traditional choral music performances, Encore ROCKS groups singing rock ‘n’ roll hits from the 50s and beyond, therapeutic Arts for Life programs for individuals with early- to mid-stage cognitive change and their care partners, and online Encore University classes to supplement our singers’ musical journeys. Encore was established in 2007 by Jeanne Kelly. Jeanne took a leadership role in the landmark Creativity and Aging Study, funded by the National Endowment for the Arts and the National Institutes for Health. The study found that older adults receive tremendous physical, mental, and emotional benefits by participating in professionally-led choral arts programs. Over the next fifteen years, Jeanne led Encore to its current position of national prominence. Accessibility is the key to Encore’s success. There are no auditions to become a member of an Encore program; interested singers need only to have a love for music and a desire to improve their physical, mental, and emotional health. No singer needs to have any experience with music or singing, and the ability to read music is not necessary. Singers may be seated or standing for all ninety-minute rehearsals and performances. Most importantly of all, Encore is fun! Encore singers love the music, love to sing, and thrive on the camaraderie that comes with the Encore experience.