In the new research project, “Dance with Us!”, Salzburg Research and its partners aim to improve the well-being of socially disadvantaged people by combining music, dance, and movement.

The “Dance with Us!” project uses music, dance, and movement to encourage people—especially women, families with children, seniors, and people with disabilities—to lead healthier lifestyles and become more active. At the same time, the project is investigating the impact of such support on health and quality of life, the barriers to participation, and how the project concept can be developed and implemented further. Through creative, connecting, and inspiring initiatives, the University of Salzburg, the Salzburg University of Applied Sciences (FHS), the Salzburg Research Institute, and the Salzburg Institute for Arts in Medicine (SIAM) aim to promote social justice jointly in the health sector.

Creative scientific approach to health promotion

“Dance with Us!” is a creative, multidimensional concept for an innovative health initiative. It is an attractive dance program for beginners and advanced dancers that can be incorporated into everyday life and is tailored to specific target groups. Led by professional artists with expertise in music, dance, and social participation, these programs take the form of dance interventions. They aim to promote creative movement and communal experiences. The interventions also include seated dance for people with disabilities, creating an inclusive space for all, regardless of age, background, or physical ability.

The psychological effects of the “Dance with Us!” programs are scientifically monitored and evaluated through participant observation and interviews. Health questionnaires are also used to assess changes in physical and psychological well-being. Heart rate during dancing is also measured to demonstrate the impact of movement and music on the cardiovascular system.

Dance interventions in Salzburg

The pilot phase of the “Dance with Us!” project will run until October 2025. Dance classes will be offered on three afternoons a week (Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays) in the Lehen district of Salzburg.

The other dance events will take place on the following dates:

The project is funded by the State of Salzburg WISS 2030 Impulse Project, the GWS funding pot FH Salzburg, the City of Salzburg, the SIAM—Salzburg Institute for Arts in Medicine, the Mozarteum University Salzburg, and the Interuniversity Institution for Science and Art (University of Salzburg, Mozarteum University Salzburg).