Singing together online
Singing together online
| Keywords | Accessibility Intergenerational Intercultural Other |
| Target Group | Different Ages Senior Citizens (65+) People With Disabilities |
| Used Methods | Presentation Survey Discussions |
| Categories | Media Engagement Educating Seeking Dialogue |
| Level of Participation | National Level |
| Approach | Low-Threshold |
| Format of the Method | Digital (Online) |
| Duration of preparation | Short-Term (Less Than 1 Month) |
Duration
| From | Until |
Short Description
The format “Singing Together Online” was developed during the COVID-19 pandemic as part of the project VIVES-BW.de. At a time when choirs, singing groups, and communal events were no longer possible due to health restrictions, this online format offered a safe, joyful, and accessible alternative — directly from the comfort of one’s home.
Since then, it has evolved into a popular participatory activity, bringing together people of all ages for a cheerful, music-filled evening online. Participants sing well-known folk songs, old-time favorites, and popular tunes — melodies many carry in their hearts. The event is musically accompanied by dedicated musicians and vocalists, live via video.
Das Format “Gemeinsam online singen” wurde während der COVID-19-Pandemie im Rahmen des Projekts VIVES-BW.de entwickelt. Zu einer Zeit, als Chöre, Singgruppen und Gemeinschaftsveranstaltungen aus gesundheitlichen Gründen nicht mehr möglich waren, bot dieses Online-Format eine sichere, fröhliche und zugängliche Alternative – direkt von zu Hause aus.
Seitdem hat es sich zu einer beliebten Mitmach-Aktivität entwickelt, die Menschen aller Altersgruppen zu einem fröhlichen, musikalischen Abend im Internet zusammenbringt. Die Teilnehmer singen bekannte Volkslieder, Old-Time-Favoriten und beliebte Melodien – Melodien, die viele in ihrem Herzen tragen. Musikalisch begleitet wird die Veranstaltung von engagierten Musikern und Sängern, die live per Video zugeschaltet werden.
Goals
Enable social participation despite physical distance or mobility challenges
Promote emotional well-being through music and shared experience
Strengthen digital confidence and inclusion, particularly among older adults
Support cultural memory and identity through familiar songs
Foster intergenerational connection and community spirit
What is needed
Requirements for “Singing Together Online”
1. Technical Setup
a)For Organizers
A video conferencing platform like Zoom, Jitsi, BigBlueButton, or similar
➤ Needs to support screen sharing, basic audio optimization, and optional breakout rooms.
A moderator or host: Welcomes participants, guides the session and introduces songs, musicians or vocalists (live):
➤ Preferably with good audio equipment (microphone, headphones, acoustic instruments or keyboard)
Technical support person, assists participants with connection issues, shares lyrics or visual materials on screen
For Participants
A laptop, tablet, or smartphone with: Camera and microphone, stable internet connection, built-in or external speakers (or headphones)
No special software needed beyond the video call link
2. Content & Materials: A selection of well-known songs (folk songs, classics, popular tunes).
Song lyrics prepared in digital slides (PDF, PowerPoint, or screen share). Optional: printable song sheets.
A schedule (60–90 minutes recommended):
Welcome and tech check
6–10 songs, with pauses for breathing or conversation
Optional: short story or reflection
Closing and goodbyes
Email address for song suggestions or feedback (e.g. vives@ileu.net)
3. Participation Support
Invitation and outreach:
Flyers, phone calls, emails to senior centers or cultural groups
Emphasis on “no pressure – just join and enjoy!”
Optional support:
Volunteers, relatives, or caregivers can help participants connect and join the session
Warm and inclusive atmosphere:
Encouragement, familiar structure, and patience are key
4. Optional Extras
Themed sessions: e.g. “Spring Songs”, “Songs from Europe”, “Favorite Childhood Songs”
Products and Materials
| Documentation of the Project/Event | |
| Post Cards | |
| Poster | |
| Press Release | |
| Photo Gallery | |
| Video | |
| Blog | |
| Decoration: Flags/Bookmarks | |
| Information about the Danube Countries |