Encore Creativity’s mission is to create meaningful arts experiences supporting lifelong learning, wellness, and fun for all older adults.

Encore Creativity for Older Adults is the nation’s largest choral arts organization for adults 55 and over. With over 40 ensembles (and growing!) nationwide, and over 1500 singers ages 55 to 99, Encore is a leading organization in the field of creative aging. We envision a world where all older adults have a place in the arts.

Encore’s programs include:

• Encore Chorales, traditional choirs singing choral classics in four-part harmony
• Encore ROCKS groups, singing rock ‘n’ roll hits from the 50s, 60s, and beyond
• Arts for Life ensembles, which connect individuals with cognitive change and their care partners through song
• Encore University, online educational classes focusing on key areas of artistic wellness

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.

Encore strives to serve new and returning singers by setting goals for the future that include:
• maintaining our commitment to providing accessible and excellent artistic environments for all older adults, and upholding our values of consistency, transparency, and integrity;
• expanding Encore programs into new locations, and growing participation in our current communities;
• incorporating diverse voices into every program, and breaking down the barriers to accessible arts education; and
• serving as the thought leader and voice for creative aging and older adult arts programs throughout the country.

Encore is an IRS 501(c)(3) nonprofit tax-exempt organization.

IMPROVING

health and wellness

CULTIVATING

opportunities for

social connection and friendship

Everyone has a place at Encore!

Encore Creativity for Older Adults values diversity and invites all to share, learn, and create in an environment of respect.

We are dedicated to inclusion and welcome all staff, singers, and audience members: those of every race and ethnicity, age, sexual orientation, gender expression and identity, disability, veteran status, and religious and socio-economic backgrounds. We are a caring and equitable community where participants with different backgrounds, abilities, and experiences can thrive within our artistic family.

Each of us has our own note that we bring to the song of Encore Creativity.

Discover how we uphold these values by reading our Strategic Plan: