The Psychosocial Benefits of Virtual Group Singing Using Low-Latency Technology (Pilot)

RESEARCH TEAM

Arla Good, PhD  Alex Pachete, MA  Bridget Boyle  Frank A. Russo, PhD | Toronto Metropolitan University 
Chris Chafe, DMA | Stanford Department of Music 

BACKGROUND

The wellbeing of older adults is often compromised by social isolation and self-directed stigma, impacting their mental health and quality of life. Group singing is an effective means to foster social connection, emotional wellbeing, and belonging. During the pandemic, established choir groups switched to online delivery methods in accordance with public health guidelines. While researchers had recently begun to examine the feasibility and impacts on wellbeing of virtual choirs, studies were minimal and results were mixed. Additionally, the lack of synchronicity of members due to high internet latency posed a major challenge to virtual choir singing.

Recent advancements in virtual technology have enabled virtual choirs to maintain the benefits of group singing, particularly during periods of social distancing or isolation. This study examines the feasibility and psychosocial benefits of using JackTrip, a low-latency platform, to enhance virtual choir experiences among older adults.

METHODS

Twelve semi-professional choristers aged 55–88 participated in five weekly one-hour sessions. These sessions utilized Zoom and JackTrip under low (Toronto, 15ms), medium (Montreal, 30–50ms), and high (London, 90–150ms) latency conditions, following a ZABCA design. Data collection included pre- and post-session assessments of mood, pain, and social connectedness, along with post-session questionnaires and interviews.

RESULTS

The study found significant improvements in mood and social connectedness during the low-latency sessions compared to both Zoom and higher latency sessions. Participants reported enhanced social bonding and a greater sense of inclusion, with the Inclusion of Other in Self (IOS) scale increasing significantly. The final low-latency session showed the most pronounced improvements, with social connection and mood increasing as well as pain levels decreasing.

Low-latency group singing demonstrated feasibility and effectiveness, offering psychosocial benefits superior to traditional platforms like Zoom. These findings highlight the potential for further exploration of low-latency virtual singing in promoting social well-being among older adults, particularly in addressing mobility and accessibility challenges.

KNOWLEDGE DISSEMINATION

This study formed the basis for the subsequent SingWell study, Virtually Together: Do You Hear What I Hear? A Singing Collective Unites.

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