Care Home Concert
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BSU students bring festive cheer to local care home
Thursday, 12 December, 2024This Christmas, Bath Spa University is strengthening its ties to the local community by collaborating with local care home, Midford Manor, and connecting with its residents through music.
The partnership developed last year, when residents attended one of the University’s Lunchtime Concerts – a series hosted at the Michael Tippett Centre featuring a lineup of exceptional musicians.
Staff reported a significant shift in some of their dementia patients, for whom music has remained a cherished passion, and it wasn't long before the University reached out to deepen the relationship.
This shared love for music has enabled two generations to come together this Christmas, serving as a reminder of the power of music to connect people across age, experience, and ability.
Suzanne Harris, Audience Experience and Development Leader at BSU, contacted Midford Manor to organise a student concert at the home. She said:
"I was so touched hearing how much residents had enjoyed the concert. I wanted to see if we could build a closer connection. Music remains a passion for many of the residents, even though dementia has taken so much from them.”
The visit marked the beginning of a heartwarming relationship. The partnership benefits students and residents alike; giving Music students the unique opportunity to perform for their local community, while residents experience live music from budding young musicians.
Teaching Fellow in Music Performance at BSU, Helen Reid, discussed the benefits:
“The students learn about performing in a new context, and how to connect with a different audience. The positive reaction is lovely for the students, as is performing outside an assessment situation. We encourage them to take that positive energy into other performing experiences to build their confidence.”
This December, students from BSU’s MA Music course visited the care home for a festive concert, where they brought Christmas cheer with a mix of solos, duos, choir pieces, and holiday classics.
BSU student and soprano singer, Emily Ringwood-Harrington, performed a variety of duets with her course mate, including Christmas favourites such as Baby it’s Cold Outside, for those who enjoy a jazzier sound, and O Holy Night for residents with a more classical style.
Discussing her experience, Emily said:
“This was my first time performing in a care home and I was so excited to share the experience with everyone. I loved meeting the residents and getting to know them. I hope the concert kickstarted the festive period for Midford Manor!”
Reflecting on the impact of the concert, Kerry Huggins, Wellbeing Co-Ordinator at Midford Manor said:
“Our residents were talking about the singing all day. One resident said, 'They were brilliant, get them back again!’ Others said that singing carols got them into the Christmas spirit, and everyone wants them to come back as soon as possible.”