What started as free tickets to see a flamenco fusion band in Spain turned into an unexpected research opportunity for a team of researchers at Penn State, who discovered a unique example of the power of music to bridge generational divides.
The case study, published online ahead of inclusion in an upcoming issue of the Journal of Intergenerational Relationships, explored the ways that a band in Granada, Spain - La Plazuela - incorporated stories about intergenerational family conversations and relationships into their songs and performances, drawing multi-generational audiences along the way.
"The band's music shows how creative expression can bring generations together - not just to listen, but to connect, reflect and imagine a future rooted in cultural pride and mutual respect," said Matthew Kaplan, paper author and professor of intergenerational programs and aging in the College of Agricultural Sciences.
The team's analysis suggests that music and live performances can open up space for reimagining intergenerational relationships and questioning ageist assumptions, according to Kaplan. He explained that the band's approach could offer inspiration for communities everywhere looking to strengthen social bonds across generations and honor shared heritage.
"Through their music and media presence, La Plazuela encourages younger generations to appreciate how older adults enrich their lives and contribute to their personal growth," he said. "By blending tradition with innovation, the band not only bridges generational gaps but also demonstrates the universal power of music to create shared experiences across time and place."
A musical, multi-generational inspiration
Kaplan was on sabbatical in Spain when a friend offered him a few free tickets to see La Plazuela, who describe their style as "electronic-flamenco-funk fusion" - a blend of music rooted in traditional culture and the contemporary music scene.
"We went just to relax and have fun, but right away, I noticed that the audience looked a little different," Kaplan said. "There were young people but also older people, too. It was very multigenerational. And everyone was swaying and enjoying the music together, they weren't separating themselves."
