How Music and Memories Is Changing the Tune in Residential Aged Care

Music and Memories

Sing • Remember • Smile

Since launching in September, Music and Memories by Richard Ings Music has grown into something truly special. What began as a specialised musical program designed for aged care audiences has quickly found its rhythm — engaging residents, delighting staff, and bringing the joy of live performance to communities across Canberra and beyond.

The show is now regularly staged at residences operated by RSL LifeCare, BaptistCare, Arcare, and Salvation Army Aged Care, with new bookings continuing to come in. And on Wednesday 24 September, I’m proud to take Music and Memories to the main entertainment stage at the Seniors and Better Ageing Expo, presented by COTA ACT and Upstaging Canberra.

Music and Memories Logo

About the Show

Music and Memories by Richard Ings Music is a fully staged, 60-minute live music experience tailored for aged care and community audiences. The program features a curated setlist of timeless classics, nostalgic gems, and the occasional modern surprise — songs that spark connection, movement, and memory. And it’s not just for older generations: these are tracks that work just as well in pubs, festivals, and community stages. If a song gets a pub crowd singing and swaying, it usually does the same in aged care too.

It’s presented with professional sound, lighting, staging, and most importantly — lyrics, provided both as printed lyric books and digitally via smartphone-accessible QR code. This small touch has become one of the show’s most loved features, making it easier for everyone — residents, staff, carers and visiting family — to sing, remember, and smile together.

Every Music and Memories show includes professional sound, lighting and staging

More Than A Sing Along

Music and Memories by Richard Ings Music is more than just a sing along. It’s part of a broader shift in how we approach music in aged care. For many residents, music is a lifeline — a way to reconnect with identity, recall moments from the past, or simply enjoy being part of something shared.

This program is designed to push my own capability as a musician — to be flexible, responsive, and to really understand the needs of diverse audiences. Whether I’m performing for a room full of active seniors, supporting people living with dementia, or playing to intergenerational groups, each show is a chance to connect deeply through music.

Not Just One Lane

For those of you discovering me through this program — I’m also an active solo performer, playing pubs, markets, and community events across Canberra and the region. If you’re a venue manager or booker, you should know this: Music and Memories by Richard Ings Music isn't about pigeonholing. It’s about versatility. Many of the songs in this setlist are part of my regular pub repertoire. The difference is in how they’re delivered — with care, context, and connection.

Join the Journey

This performance at the Seniors and Better Ageing Expo is a big moment — a chance to bring Music and Memories by Richard Ings Music to a larger stage and to show what’s possible when live music is crafted for care environments without sacrificing quality or professionalism.

If you’re a venue, an aged care manager, a fellow musician, or someone who believes in the power of music to make people feel seen and heard, I’d love you to follow the journey.

Sing. Remember. Smile.

Music and Memories by Richard Ings Music