Music and Movement for Life-Long Learners

Who we are and what we do

Since 1912, The Music Settlement has provided accessible, life-enhancing music and arts experiences to people of all ages and abilities. The Music Settlement believes it is never too late: to learn music, to return to music, to sing and to dance. Due to the positive results of current adult programming at The Music Settlement, we have developed a Creative Aging Department for researching, designing, piloting, supporting, and expanding arts and culture opportunities for adults and life-long learners throughout Northeast Ohio. We are dedicated to providing music, movement, and community to adults ages 55+, open to beginners and up. Discounts, financial aid, and hardship assistance are available to those who qualify.

Why we do it

By 2030, 20% of our nation will be 65+. By 2034, more Americans will be over 60 than will be 18 and under. Yet some art programming disregards this demographic. Creative Aging at The Music Settlement recognizes and provides artistic and intellectual stimulation for this growing demographic, as well as offering social engagement that promotes wellness. The Creative Aging Department has a key role to play in meeting the unique needs of our adult population in Cleveland such as socialization, mobility, and support of brain health (skills retention, stimulation, and memory care). 

She is the staff bassist for Progressive Evangelistic Baptist Church and also plays bass for the youth choir of Greater Abyssinia Baptist Church, both in Cleveland. In addition to gospel, Afi plays blues and jazz.

Afi has been a teaching artist since 2004. She’s developed arts-integrated curriculum for subjects ranging from social studies to financial management. She conducts songwriting workshops for grades K-6, using the blues to teach literacy. She’s also coached middle and high school students for the “Stop The Hate: Youth Sing Out” songwriting competition sponsored by the Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage and Roots of American Music.

Afi is also an award-winning author, columnist and reporter, whose work has been featured on NPR, The Plain Dealer and in national and international publications and news sites.