Music Across Generations

Elevating the power of music to bring generations together

Music Across Generations

Elevating the power of music to bring generations together

Music is one of the best ways not only to tell the story of cogeneration, but to show what it looks – and sounds – like.

The context

In the broader culture, intergenerational music collaboration is having a moment. A few examples: Tracy Chapman and Luke Combs, Joni Mitchell and Brandi Carlile (pictured above), Billy Joel and Icelandic cellist Laufey, and Tony Bennett and Lady Gaga. 

At the same time, scores of local programs regularly bring generations together to make music, including the Heart of Los Angeles Intergenerational Orchestra, Big Band and Choir; Dancing With the Spirit; and Concerts in Motion.

The program

At CoGenerate, music has been a foundational source of inspiration for our efforts to bring generations together. With support from the Eisner Foundation, we’re launching Music Across Generations to:

  • Showcase and leverage the power of music to bring generations together to advance cogeneration.
  • Catalyze more opportunities for older and younger people to make music together in ways that reduce loneliness and social isolation, fight polarization, bridge divides, and build strong communities.
Portraits of Marc Freedman and Ben Proudfoot

Nov 8: A film screening and conversation with Ben Proudfoot

Join us on Nov. 8, as we welcome Ben Proudfoot, the Academy Award-winning filmmaker behind The Last Repair Shop, A Concerto Is a Conversation and That’s My Jazz — three films that showcase the power of music to bring generations together.

Essays & Events

Music Is Having a Moment — And It’s a Cogenerational One.

Music Is Having a Moment — And It’s a Cogenerational One.

Sunday’s show featured three big moments reminding us that music can be a bridge not only across race, culture, and genre, but also age. Tracy Chapman & Luke Combs. Much attention, rightfully, has gone to the duet between Tracy Chapman, who turns 60 next month,...

Video Clips