pensioners who learned to play

One woman who took up music after her husband died said it had proved an invaluable support, adding: “Singing is always uplifting and it is difficult to be sad while playing the ukulele.”

However researchers from the Institute of Education who observed the music groups said that “harmony did not always reign”, with some elderly participants reluctant to try their hands at reggae or electronic music.

It comes after a Finnish study found that music therapy with drums and instruments like xylophones can help people overcome depression.

The findings could be significant as Britain’s population ages and rates of dementia and depression rise.

Prof Sue Hallam, who led the new research, said: “Our research is significant for these reasons but also because of the extraordinary demographic transitions that are under way in the UK.

“For the first time ever, Britain’s over-65s now outnumber those under the age of 16. There is therefore a need for initiatives that support older people’s wellbeing, particularly as the number of people in this age group suffering from depression is too high. Our research suggests that music-making can often help in this respect.”

In the year-long study, researchers questioned 500 people aged between 50 and 93 who were taking part in leisure activities organized by The Sage Gateshead, Westminster Adult Education Service and the Guildhall School of Music and Drama.

Of these, almost 400 were learning to play musical instruments ranging from drums to the ukulele, singing in groups or taking music appreciation classes.