Fiddler Under
The Roof
Bridging generations through the bow
We connect elder fiddlers in retirement communities with local volunteer musicians for shared play, mentorship, and the preservation of musical heritage. Every tune tells a story — let's make sure those stories endure.
How It Works
Identify
Retirement community staff help us find residents with fiddling experience — at any skill level. Every fiddler has tunes worth preserving.
Connect
We carefully match elder fiddlers with vetted local musicians based on geography, style, and temperament. Regular informal sessions begin.
Preserve
Volunteer fiddlers transcribe the elder's tunes. Audio recordings and the stories behind each melody are captured for all time.
Everyone Benefits
For Residents
- Renewed sense of purpose and legacy
- Cognitive and emotional stimulation through music
- Meaningful connections that combat loneliness
For Communities
- Unique, high-impact programming for residents
- Enhanced facility reputation and positive PR
- Culturally richer, more connected communities
For Fiddlers
- Direct access to living history and rare tunes
- Mentorship from masters of regional styles
- Deep community bonds through shared music
Our Impact
Real numbers from a growing movement.
Stories From The Sessions
Every pairing creates a unique story of connection, music, and preservation.
Stories coming soon
As our first pairings begin, we'll share the stories of connection and discovery that emerge from each session. Check back soon.
Join The Program
Whether you're a musician looking to share your gift or a retirement community wanting to enrich your residents' lives, we'd love to hear from you.
Volunteer Fiddlers
Share your musical gift with an elder fiddler. Sign up, get matched, and start making music together.
Sign Up as VolunteerRetirement Communities
Bring meaningful music programming to your residents. Register your facility and we'll help identify fiddlers among your community.
Register a FacilityVolunteer Resources
Everything you need to be an effective and sensitive visitor.
Session Etiquette Guide
Best practices for visiting retirement communities: what to expect, how to make residents comfortable, handling sensitive situations.
Download PDF →
Transcription Toolkit
Beginner-friendly guide to ABC notation, recommended phone recording setups, tips for capturing tunes from imperfect memories.
Download PDF →
Working with Memory Loss
Sensitive guidance on playing with residents who have dementia or cognitive decline. Music reaches where words cannot.
Download PDF →
Session Starter Tunes
Collection of widely-known tunes for ice-breaking. Large-print sheet music to bring along for the first visit.
Download PDF →
Where Sessions Are Happening
Our growing network of pairings across the country.
Interactive map coming soon
Don't see your area? Help us expand →
Support Our Mission
Your donation directly funds sessions, background checks, travel stipends, and transcription materials.
$50 covers approximately 3 sessions
Fiddler Under The Roof is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. All donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.