Community-Driven Music Mutual Aid Group Model: Building Social Support Networks Through Intergenerational Harp Ensemble

This research project (Study 18) investigates the Community-Driven Music Mutual Aid Group Model, specifically focusing on the social capital generated by intergenerational harp ensembles. As an extension of the broader lifespan music education framework, this study transitions from a purely therapeutic focus to a social mediator framework to address community fragmentation and aging population challenges.

Key research components included in this deposit:

1. Main Research Paper (PDF): Provides the theoretical foundation based on Bourdieu’s Social Capital Theory and Wenger’s Communities of Practice, alongside qualitative synthesis of international documentary evidence.

2. Experimental Dataset (XLSX): A de-identified pilot study dataset (n=9) demonstrating the application of the Community Mutual Aid Index (CMAI). Preliminary findings show a mean index of 83.8, proving a strong correlation between musical interaction frequency and emergent social support networks.

3. Operational SOP Guide (PDF): A practical manual outlining the four phases of group formation: Foundation, Formation, Development, and Sustainability.

This work serves as a practical resource for music educators and community workers seeking to implement sustainable, intergenerational social support systems through instrumental pedagogy.