The United States is facing a growing crisis of loneliness and social isolation that is impacting mental, physical, and emotional well-being across all ages and communities. Nearly one in three adults report feeling lonely, and research shows that severe loneliness can significantly increase the risk of poor health outcomes and premature death. Individuals living with long-term health conditions are especially vulnerable, experiencing chronic loneliness at disproportionately high rates.
Music has the power to bring people together in ways few other interventions can.
Research demonstrates that participatory music programs help strengthen social connection by fostering emotional bonds, encouraging engagement, creating shared experiences, and building a greater sense of belonging. Community-based music initiatives — including choirs, music education, collaborative performances, and therapeutic music programs — have been shown to reduce loneliness, improve well-being, and help individuals reconnect with themselves and others.
Music is not simply entertainment. It can be a powerful public health intervention.
Federal investment in music programs across schools, hospitals, and community spaces can help expand opportunities for connection, improve emotional well-being, support healthy aging, and strengthen communities nationwide.
We are calling on policymakers to work alongside the Foundation for Social Connection Action Network and Artists for Action to increase federal support for music-based programs that combat loneliness and strengthen social connection.
Specifically, we urge federal leaders to:
<ul>
<li>Expand funding for participatory music programs in schools and community settings</li>
<li>Support music-based initiatives in hospitals, behavioral health settings, and long-term care environments</li>
<li>Recognize music and creative engagement as tools to improve public health and social well-being</li>
<li>Invest in programs that foster belonging, emotional connection, and community engagement</li>
</ul>
Connection is essential to health. Music can help bring us together.
Add your voice today by filling out the form below to send a letter to your elected representatives and support increased federal funding for music programs that strengthen connection and community well-being.

Music Creates Connection. Connection Protects Health.

The United States is facing a growing crisis of disconnection. Nearly one in three adults report feeling lonely, and severe loneliness is linked to almost double the mortality risk compared to those who are socially connected. Individuals with long-term health conditions are especially affected, experiencing chronic loneliness at twice the rate of others. 

Research shows that participatory music programs uniquely address loneliness by increasing social interaction, building meaningful emotional connections, and fostering a sense of belonging—benefits that go beyond simple social contact. Community-based initiatives, such as choirs, have demonstrated measurable reductions in loneliness while helping individuals better understand themselves and their relationships with others. 

The federal government should prioritize funding for music programs in schools, hospitals, and community spaces. Especially during periods of social isolation, music offers a powerful tool for restoring a sense of control, strengthening identity, deepening connection, and enhancing present-moment awareness. 

I urge you to work with the Foundation for Social Connection Action Network and Artists for Action to expand federal support for these vital programs.