Keroncong music as culturally grounded therapeutic communication

Abstract

This study examined keroncong music as a culturally grounded therapeutic communication medium within mental health programmes for older adults in Cirebon. Through a qualitative case study approach, the participants’ experiences during keroncong-based activities were explored via in-depth interviews, observations, and document analysis. Data were analysed using Miles and Huberman’s interactive model. The findings indicate that keroncong facilitates socio-emotional well-being through three interrelated mechanisms: autobiographical memory activation, emotional regulation, and social interaction. Familiar musical elements stimulated reminiscence and collective storytelling, while regular participation was associated with increased emotional stability, enhanced social engagement, and reduced feelings of loneliness. In addition, keroncong functioned as a non-verbal communication medium that supported interpersonal connection within a culturally familiar context. This study conceptualises keroncong as a culturally grounded therapeutic communication medium that operates through non-verbal, collective, and memory-based interaction. A conceptual framework titled ‘Therapeutic Communication Based on Keroncong Music’ is proposed, highlighting its potential as a culturally relevant approach in elderly mental health programmes.