Asking questions about music and passions opens up someone’s most joyful and vibrant side. A song can carry a whole decade; a hobby can explain hours of happiness; an old passion can reveal a dream no one knew about. These things form the soundtrack of a life — and say a lot about who the person really is.
The music of a life
- Which song takes you straight back to your youth?
- Which artist or band left a mark on your life?
- Did you play an instrument, or dream of playing one?
Passions and hobbies
- What did you most enjoy doing in your free time?
- Was there a passion you carried your whole life?
- Is there a talent of yours that few people know about?
What brings colour to life
- What has always brought you joy, even on hard days?
- What was the most fun outing you ever had?
Questions like these can round out a life story with interests beyond work. If the person wants to record or sing, ask permission first and agree on who may listen, how it will be used and how the file will be reviewed. They may prefer just to name a song, talk about another interest or chat without recording.
The soundtrack of a life
In the end, someone’s songs and passions are what give their story colour — the seasoning that turns a biography into a living portrait.
A soundtrack can cross several languages
Ask about songs heard in the car, at family gatherings or in a community in Canada. Do not assume everyone recognizes the same artist or genre: the important song may come from the language of childhood or a recent friendship. Keep the title and what it means to the person. Listening to music can be an invitation to talk, with no promise of bringing back memories or treating dementia.
Further reading: StoryCorps — great questions.
See also ideas for starting a family record.