John Paul College’s Vocational Major students recently took part in an inspiring project called ‘Songs for You’, organised and facilitated by Embraced, an organisation dedicated to connecting generations through art. This initiative brought our students together with a group of older people living at Skye Lodge Aged Care, forging unique connections across generations through storytelling and music.
Over a four month period, the students engaged in meaningful conversations with their older friends, listening to life experiences and memories. These exchanges became the inspiration for song writing workshops, where the students worked to transform these personal stories into original songs, capturing the essence of their older counterparts.
Year 12 student Nyamar reflected on the program saying:
This experience has been unreal for me. It definitely took me out of my comfort zone. Being with someone who’s older and has so many life experiences really impacts the way you look at life.
For 95-year-old Irene, the project brought joy:
It was amusing, it made me feel happy. And I think it did good to everyone else too. It was light, and it was happy, and I like to be like that.
With guidance from Embraced’s intergenerational facilitators and musicians, the students wrote and performed their songs, which were later shared in an intimate presentation. Each song was recorded and gifted to the participants on a nostalgic cassette as a personal keepsake.
Parent Cheryl commended the program for its emotional impact and the intergenerational bonds it nurtured:
It was so moving and lovely to see the bonds made between generations. Great program and great effort from all the groups.
The ‘Songs For You’ project is more than just music; it’s a celebration of connection, empathy, and shared creativity. We are so proud of our students for stepping out of their comfort zones and forming meaningful relationships through this extraordinary experience.
For more information on the Songs For You project, visit: https://www.embraced.com.au/songsforyou