The sound of inflation: A Family-Friendly Exploration of the Cost of Living Through Music  

Economists from Aston University have organised this interactive one-hour, in-person event for both children and adults to explore the world of inflation and its impact on everyday decision-making. The session combines an interactive talk with hands-on activities, economic games, and live musical performances to explore the history of inflation and its consequences.

One of the most important economic concepts affecting household is inflation. Frequently featured in the news, inflation refers to the general increase in prices over time. As prices rise, the purchasing power of money declines, meaning that a fixed amount of money can buy fewer goods than it could in the past. This raises many important questions, such as: What does inflation mean in practice for families and households? When do we regard an inflation rate as too high? Why is a negative inflation rate (deflation), meaning prices are falling, also a problem for society?

This event will provide families with an engaging opportunity to explore and better understand this important economic concept. To make these ideas more accessible and memorable, we will harness the universal language of music, with a talented group of young musicians performing selected pieces that illustrate key themes and encourage discussion.

Economists from Aston Business School will be leading the event:

Dr Chiara Paola Donegani - Senior Lecturer in Economics at Aston University.

Dr Robert Riegler - Senior Lecturer in Economics at Aston University.

Partner organisations actively involved are the following:

The Old Print Works volunteers, led by Hannah, will help us promoting the event.

ChangeKitchen will be providing light refreshments.  ChangeKitchen is a local award-winning catering social enterprise and Kindness Cafe based in Balsall Heath, that began its journey of social impact, food justice, improving life opportunities and cooking up delicious, climate-friendly, plant-based menus back in 2010. More recently, in 2026, ChangeKitchen was the category winner for Sustainability & CSR in the first Good Food SME Awards, notably for their innovative consumer product range.

A group of young musicians led by Teacher Joanna Szalewska Pineau will play music. Dr Joanna is a pianist, educator and researcher. For many years she has been a secondary school Music teacher and community-music practitioner, working with young people and migrant families and focusing on inclusivity, creativity and collaboration. Dr Joanna is passionate about making the musical experiences engaging and fun.

This event is open to any members of the public and suitable for families with children.

Given the interactive nature of the talk, and activities suitable for school-aged children, families with children may have a particular interest in attending this session.

48 hours before the event starts.