I have been involved in music all my life, being taught the piano by my grandfather as a child, then learning cello, double bass and percussion at music school, plus self taught guitar. I have played in orchestras and sing in choirs. My first job was working on BBC Radio Two in the (handwritten!) sheet music library.
I am now self employed and visit care homes to bring music to those with dementia, , learning disabilities, challenging behaviour and acquired brain injury.
I am currently researching and developing new ideas to enable very elderly people to relearn how to play the piano (if they have done this in the past), and for those who haven't, to show them they CAN play the piano in a meaningful and relaxing way to them.
I've heard too many times in the past 'I'm too old for that dear' and yet I have people now playing the piano with me and even accompanying others to sing songs. The boost to their self esteem is immense and purposeful practising before and after I'm in the Home gives added interest to their lives.
The benefits of music to health are becoming much more realised in the Care Home setting, with the 'feel good' factor continuing to last well beyond the end of the session.