Older adults singing programme - London Symphony Orchestra
In collaboration with Vital Arts and music facilitator Jessie Maryon Davies and The London Symphony Orchestra developed a singing programme across five older adult wards at Whipps Cross Hospital. The LSO Discovery programme, the Orchestra’s community and music education programme, sees LSO players work in local communities around East London reaching some 60,000 people per year
Widely acclaimed to be one of the world’s finest orchestras, members of the LSO spent one afternoon each month entertaining older patients during their hospital stay to improve their experience.
Working with occupational therapists, dementia specialists and ward staff, musicians developed a repertoire of songs put together in consultation with patients and staff. They used musical performances and participative songs to improve the patients’ experience of being in hospital, providing a pleasant and calming environment on the ward.
Group sessions began with introductions, gentle physical and vocal warm up exercises and breathing exercises. Patients were invited to participate in singing familiar songs together, music making and listening to a range of calming and uplifting music provided by LSO musicians, whilst Occupational Therapists helped patients physically with warm ups, exercises and one-to-one support. Between songs, time was allowed for reminiscing of feelings, memories and stories.The programme encouraged social interaction and communication in a fun and inclusive way. enhance their wellbeing, encourage creative expression and communication.
At a visit on 18 May 2016 an LSO clarinettist entertained patients and staff at afternoon ward tea parties, where family members could also get specialist advice to mark Dementia Awareness Week 2016.
“The music has been really excellent and has brought a lot of joy to people. My mother is 92 and has dementia, but she has been out of bed dancing and singing with the nurses saying it was just like when she danced with friends at parties held during the war.”
“I am very grateful to the London Symphony Orchestra. Their visits really make a difference and improve the afternoon for many of our patients.
The wonder of music is that it has a special ability to bring people together. You actually see patients breathe more calmly, relaxing to the rhythm. We’ve had fantastic comments from patients, family members and staff.”
