Music: The Universal Language of Belonging

Tenant Stories | May 28, 2025

Music: The Universal Language of Belonging

At the Trees, music has become something of a heartbeat. It pulses through the community in quiet moments and loud ones—an impromptu dance party in the hallway, the echo of karaoke drifting from the community room, or the simple strum of a ukulele on a quiet evening.

For tenants, music isn’t an activity, it’s a connection. It’s how friendships start and memories stick. It’s the reason someone who rarely speaks might suddenly belt out the lyrics to their favorite country song, or why a group of neighbors becomes a band for an evening, playing rhythms that don’t need words.

“When we sing together, we’re all just people enjoying the same moment,” said one staff member. “Music makes everyone feel included, no matter what.”

The magic happens in big and small ways. Tenants debate whether a song is a bop or a flop with the seriousness of music critics. A quiet tenant finds confidence through weekly ukulele lessons. Others dance with abandon at group socials, moving not to impress, but just because the music feels too good not to.

Thanks to a gift from the Papillion Jr. Women’s Club, Sheltering Tree recently added new instruments.  A hosted ukulele workshop, led by two members of the Kukui Nuts Ukulele Group, Mona and Kris, has become a Tree favorite. And through a partnership with Opera Omaha, tenants have enjoyed live performances and conversations exploring how music connects with color, emotion, and personal story.

In a world that sometimes feels rushed and complicated, music at the Tree offers a different rhythm—one that invites joy, connection, and a sense of belonging. Here, a song is never just a song. It’s a reminder that we all have a voice, and sometimes, the best way to use it is to sing.