Promoting elderly wellbeing through indigenous music and choral performance

• This research contributes to the expanding body of work focused on the health and well-being of elderly individuals, a topic that has acquired increasing attention from scholars in recent years. Traditionally, the elderly are often perceived as having reached the end of their life journey, with many being regarded as merely awaiting their final days. As a result, they frequently become vulnerable to a range of physical ailments, emotional distress, depression, and stress, stemming from various factors impacting their lives, including isolation, loss, and declining health. • Recent studies, however, highlight the importance of prioritizing the mental, emotional, and physical well-being of elderly people. Research shows that fostering happiness and maintaining positive emotional health in the elderly can significantly enhance their overall quality of life. Engaging them in activities that promote emotional nourishment, community involvement, and personal fulfilment is increasingly recognized as beneficial, not only in alleviating feelings of depression and stress but also in potentially extending their life expectancy. The growing recognition of this connection underscores the need for innovative approaches to support the elderly, emphasizing the value of social, cultural, and recreational interventions in promoting their long-term health and happiness. • This research demonstrates that active involvement in music offers substantial benefits for the elderly, highlighting the importance of engaging them not only as listeners but also as active participants in musical activities. This paper explores the impact of indigenous instrumental music and choir performances on the wellbeing of elderly individuals who perform their music at the Hlanganani Malamulele Society for the Aged centre in Giyani, Limpopo Province, South Africa. It examines how these musical activities provide emotional nourishment and promote happiness and wellbeing among the elderly. Through interviews, performances, music transcription, participation, and observation, the study finds that engagement in music activities, such as choir singing, performing and listening to indigenous instruments, significantly promotes the wellbeing and health of the elderly. The findings suggest that these musical activities contribute to the reduction of stress and depression while encouraging a fulfilling lifestyle for the elderly participants. This paper argues that indigenous instrumental and choral music play a crucial role in fostering a healthy, wellbeing and happy life for the elderly members.