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Are you a musician looking for more opportunities to share your talent and love of music with other people? Have you ever considered providing musical entertainment at a nursing home?
Most residents love to hear and see live music. In addition, you’ll add variety and joy to their days.
I want to preface this article by letting you know that I’m not a musician. However, I’ve sat in on many music programs during my time as a nursing home volunteer. So, if you have experience providing musical entertainment at nursing homes, I would love to see you add your suggestions in the comment section.
What makes a good nursing home musician?
It’s important to feel comfortable interacting with the residents. Encourage them to clap or sing along. Ask if anyone has a birthday and then invite everyone to sing the “Happy Birthday” song. Or sing a patriotic song and encourage anyone who served in the military to stand or raise their hand.
Residents enjoy when you chat with them a bit during the performance. Share information about yourself and your family. Tell a couple of silly jokes. I’ve also found that residents enjoy hearing a bit of history about the songs you’re presenting. Finally, it’s a nice touch to greet some residents individually after the show.
A musician needs to be prepared for unexpected behaviors and not take them personally. For example, it’s not unusual for residents to doze off during a performance. Or sometimes a resident will get up and leave to use the restroom or for some other reason. If you’re performing for residents living with dementia, you might see other unexpected behaviors.
How do I get started?
At most nursing homes, the activity director arranges musical entertainment. Call or email them and let them know what you offer. Many musicians will do an initial program free of charge to introduce themselves to the residents and staff.
If you’re able to volunteer your services on a long-term basis, that’s wonderful. However, most nursing homes have money in their budgets devoted to entertainment, and there’s nothing wrong with asking for compensation. The going rate varies quite a bit between facilities, but from what I understand, the average is around $50 to $100 per hour.
I remember many years ago, nursing homes often accepted anyone willing to perform for free. This resulted in some truly dreadful entertainment. I’m sure the entertainers’ hearts were in the right place. But nursing home residents deserve high-quality musical entertainment, just like the rest of us.
When will I perform?
Residents usually enjoy programs that last about 60 minutes. Nursing homes most commonly schedule music programs in the mid-afternoon, although you might also be asked to perform in the morning or evening. It’s also common to perform for holiday events, during special meals, or they might even ask you to provide music for private events like birthday parties or anniversary celebrations.
If you find you enjoy being a nursing home entertainer, I encourage you to check with other nursing homes in the area. Many musicians are on a routine schedule to perform at several facilities each month.
What types of music work best?
The activities director will offer suggestions as to the types of songs the residents enjoy. We’ve seen positive responses to many types of music such as vocal, guitar, piano, violin, accordion, and harp.
If you perform as a family, that’s even better. The residents love to watch children sing!
As a general rule, residents prefer to hear familiar songs. If you enjoy writing your own songs, this probably isn’t the best time to try out your new compositions.
Residents also appreciate when you ask for requests. If you’re not familiar with the songs, jot them down and learn them for the next time you’re at the nursing home.
What other advice would you offer to people interested in providing musical entertainment at nursing homes? Please share in the comment section!
Niko says
Hi, Thanks for the article. I see that you mention “familiar songs”. I am not questioning your knowledge on this subject but I would like to respectfully challenge you on this. Older people are not close-minded and closed off to new musical experience. I think it is slightly ageist to think they are not open to new music. I can, however, see your point because often original music – if im being honest here – most often isn’t nearly as good as music written by professionals. But quality music that is beautiful and well done touches people universally. And I encourage anyone who makes music to spread their beauty and art into the elderly community. Native American flute songs are soothing, beautiful and provide a unique listening experience while providing history as well. These songs are not well known but people instantly enjoy them. Young and old.
Diane says
Hello Niko,
Thank you for your comment. I based this statement on my personal experience at our nursing home. However, you make an excellent point. Many residents also enjoy original music that is of high quality. I appreciate your input!
Daniel Dunn says
I have been doing this for quite sometime , except that it is for ” Assisted living ” .
Where I live here in North East Ohio , there are ” no known ” Nursing Homes that will
even pay you for the cost of your gas …. they will use and exploit you for every penny
that it is worth ! I am an Accomplished Pianist and Composer , having played for 66 years . Nursing Homes , here in Ohio , have ” no trouble ” getting free entertainment ( mostly
a dreadful joke in my estimation ) . I have offered to play , as long as I am compensated
for my gas , but to no avail ! If anyone here plays the piano , I would like to recommend
the Kawai ES8 or ES920 Portables …. absolutely wonderful sounding instruments !
Daniel Dunn says
Was surprised that you printed this testimonial . ” one of my biggest problems with
Nursing Home Performances was Dementia Patients coming over to my piano and
playing the keys while I am performing a difficult piece …. It comes with the territory . You have to learn ” not to get upset ” !
There is one positive thing I can say about playing at Nursing homes : Even though
the management rarely appreciates what you do for the residents , the Resident Aids
are always grateful to see you there …. just not worth playing and not being compensated for your gas .
mark says
yes, That happens often in the mental ward at one of the homes I perform. I am constantly aware as they approach me. Sometimes I get up and move away but usually theres a staff member to gently guide them away. as written, it comes with the territory. Im not allwed to talk or touch them, so I move away until someone comes to help. lol once a lady tried to kiss me.
mary says
I would stick with your original thought Diane because it’s true. New songs can be a hit and miss and this isn’t a rock concert where you’re promoting your new material. This type of performance at a nursing home has a different goal and there shouldn’t be testing of new songs when there are 100s and 100s of well familiar hits that people want to hear, to relive their past memories and sing along or enjoy the familiar songs with ease and pleasure. It’s only 1 hour of music and the goal is to make these seniors happy with minimum risk. This has nothing to do with “ageism” . People go out to clubs and listen to “cover bands” for this exact reason. No one wants to hear the cover bands “own songs”. Adding one’s own original repertoire has medium to high risk involved UNLESS you have John Elton visiting the nursing home and writing a new tune letting folks know “this is a new one and you folks get to hear it first!”
Stan Prentice says
Absolutely right! I performed in nursing homes for years while also playing clubs and piano bars. I agree 100%. Play songs that jog peoples’ memories. You’ll be a hit and more importantly, you’ll be asked back.
T. Smith says
Spot On! I too have performed with my Native Am. flutes in various venues, particularly in Nursing Homes, or Residential Care Ctrs., and though I also play a few familiar songs-of traditional or spiritual genre, the Native Flute is often at it’s best over Improvisational Music.
When playing the flutes at first abiding by a planned program, the instrument actually lends itself more readily into being able to “read an audience ” and playing “in the moment” , on somewhat of a more spiritual , natural, level for the audience becomes an unexpected , yet pleasurable means of communication between the performer and the audience of Seniors .
It would be a disservice to the Native Am. Flute and the audience to omit that aspect of a performance, as that is how the Native Am. Flute was meant to be played. It’s very soothing for seniors who suffer from dementia, or a good distraction for those who may be in pain. The Seniors also enjoy learning about some History of the Native Flute , as it also had been originally rekindled within our own State., so they may still feel a connection within their own Community.
Ana says
Thank you for this article. Do you think a solo singer using backing tracks would go over well with this demographic? I’d like to share my singing talents, but my piano skills aren’t up to snuff yet.
Diane says
Hello Ana,
Absolutely! I’ve seen this done successfully many times. Thank you for your interest in sharing your talent with nursing home residents. During the pandemic, more than ever before, they need meaningful and enjoyable entertainment.
Lalaine says
I would like to share my singing talent as a part time job but I don’t know where to apply for. I am from AZ. I hope if anyone is looking for a singer in their group, I am willing to join them but I am
new in this job.
Amy says
Do most nursing homes have basic musical equipment such as microphones and amps/karaoke machines or is the talent expected to bring their equipment with them? I’m a solo vocalist but haven’t performed in nursing homes since my choir days in high school.
Diane says
Hello Amy,
I can only speak for the nursing home where I volunteer. They provide a piano and microphones, and musicians bring whatever else they wish to use. There’s always a need for high-quality musical entertainment in nursing homes, so I’m excited to hear you’re interested in sharing your talent!
Carol Sanders says
I am in the process of putting together a gospel hour (old remembered hymns etc.) I will be using backing tracks, And plan to hopefully incorporate some light senior exercises(mostly arm movements). I have also found on line a large print adult coloring book with matching scripture pages I want to hand out with colored pencils. It is printable in separate pages. What do you think. I am a nurse and have spent much time in nursing homes (currently in corrections lol) I love to sing old gospel songs and any advice is appreciated.
Diane says
Hello Carol,
I love all of your ideas! Now that nursing homes are reopening from the pandemic, I know they are eager to find enjoyable entertainment for the residents.
Linda Chase says
Glad youre using backing tracks – I’ve found that seniors like this so much better than singing with a guitar or piano only – they like hearing songs in a way that they’re familiar with.
Elinor Jones says
Really liked this write up. I am a pianist.
Diane says
Hello Elinor,
Thank you for your kind words. Do you perform at senior care communities?
Mark says
I perform and sing for over 12 years in homes. Just wanted to share that many times while I’m playing and singing they come up to me and try to start a conversation. I just smile under my mask and sing directly at them. Sometimes they get the hint that I can’t perform and talk at the same time but after the show I go up to them and hear what they wanted to say.
Good point about requests. If I don’t know I write it down and learn it. Usually many people love that song and it helps me expand my repertoire. I’m not an accomplished musician and make mistakes but I enjoy spreading joy and getting paid for it. Keep most of the songs happy and upbeat.
Diane says
Hello Mark,
Think of all the lives you’ve touched in a positive way during those 12 years. Thank you! I like the approach you use when people come up to talk to you during your performance.
T. Smith says
The Performer must create a few aspects of managing themselves and the Senior audience well all at the same time while performing. Try to sign up for various facilities so you can experience a difference in behaviors that can be over-looked by staff members and discover which facility you may find most suitable for your musical entertainment. Some venues may consist of a mixed Senior audience, which can include dementia or even altzheimer residents. In that case -and should they be either short handed over staff available for your performance time-or leave you to your own devices., then remain aware of your audience. Though most will cooperate, or participate fully and be a good listening audience at best-some may tend to wander. I have had some approach me & begin to handle my instruments while I was preoccupied playing a song (s). The instruments , in that case, were best placed behind me, on a counter , or table, mainly out of sight and not so much on display , which can minimize the program some-but some limitations may be in order to prevent chaos, or damages either to your instruments or worse,, personal damages. (It also may help greatly to just bring your less valuable instruments which may still hold a lot of value to your audience in sound and appearance, etc). There are many other facilities that are very supportive of your time and music so,YOU can decide where to go and play and be most appreciated. Just a heads up that the “mixed , neglected group audience” is not always the case . , but can happen and may require some preparation in advance. There have also been excellent Memory Care ctrs. where I have performed, and staff members were always present w.in the same room. , and it worked out well
Marica says
I have been playing piano and singing in assisted living, memory care, nursing home and hospice settings for over 30 years. Most of the repertoire in published sing along materials have not been updated in all that time. The first of the Boomers are now part of this demographic. I have expanded my repertoire to the hits of the 60s and 70s with great success. Another tip is that these folks LOVE to hear children sing. Before I retired last year, I brought in a group of my 4th graders regularly to sing with me and the residents. Great experience for everyone.
Diane says
Hello Marcia,
I love that you mentioned bringing children to perform for the residents. We’ve had music and dance teachers hold “trial runs” of recitals at the nursing home. It’s a terrific experience for the kids, and the residents enjoy watching and listening to the children so much.
Linda says
I’m a professional musician (keyboardist/ singer) who’s had a major label record deal, written produced and published songs used in major movies, have written and produced almost 2,000 jingles in 42 states – and now that I’m older, I’ve been singing in nursing homes and senior centers.
I use background tracks (many of which I’ve made myself) and I’ve found that the residents like this far better than when I just played piano. The more you can sound like that favorite song they love and remember, the happier they are.
Years ago, singing in nursing homes meant WWll songs, songs from the ’40s, etc. The vast majority of today’s nursing home residents were raising their kids in the ’50s & ’60s and love Elvis, the Beatles, Neil Sedaka, Connie Francis, etc.
I’ve never had a more rewarding job – music has been proven to be THE best therapy for those with dementias – I’ve seen people singing along to my songs (all verses!) even when they no longer know who their own children are, so the power of music is stimulating, calming, affirming – its truly amazing what music can do!
If you’ve thought of singing to seniors, DO it! You will never feel more fulfilled than after an hour of making these people happy!
Diane says
Hello Linda,
I’m so glad you share your musical gifts with nursing home residents. It touches my heart to see how elders living with dementia respond to music, even when they respond to little else.
Linda Chase says
Mark, that’s fantastic! Keep up the good work – you know how much joy music brings the people we play for!!!
Donna Ray says
You betcha Linda! I have seen seniors brought in by wheel chairs with their heads hung. As our music is performed, fingers begin to tap the beat, then toes begin to tap, then heads raise up, and then they start to sing the lyrics. Below, somewhere, I have written what my husband have seen during our performances as a duo at senior facilities. Long term memory supersedes short term. Keep spreading your joy for music and keep making seniors happy!
MARK BLUMBERG says
Hi Linda, Ive been doing exactly that for 12 years now. Dont worry – even those that dont respond due to advanced stages of dimentia still hear the music and cheers them up.
Somrtimes its not easy, especially with the mental patients, but as you said the rewards are enormous.
keep it up. tomorrow i have 3 gigs in 1 day.
Donna Ray says
My husband and I perform as a duo. We were professional musicians years ago and then became school teachers for over 30 years. I taught elementary school Music and he taught TV Production and Journalism in High School. We now find enormous pleasure performing at Senior facilities. We have a varied repertoire from Classical to Bluegrass instrumentals and Popular Vocals from 1940s through the ’60s and ’70s. Long term memories supersede short term. The Seniors love singing along and remember lyrics from years gone by. I play acoustic and digital accordions. My husband plays acoustic guitar and tenor and 5-string banjos. He is mostly the lead singer. I chime in with harmonies. This is such rewarding “mission work” during our retirement years. We often go out to dinner after these little gigs and spend most of our small pay check. However, we do not do this for the money. We do it for the Smiles that our performances generate.
Charisse (Cher) says
I am a pianist and my sister sings and we perform for nursing homes in the Chicago area and suburbs.
Our mother is 97 yrs old and still sings opera. Her voice is amazing. We enjoy making elders smile and
reminisce on beautiful music. We are available anytime to entertain in nursing hoes and private homes for events or just for pleasure of one or two people. Our personality and love of music is shown through our performance.
Diane says
Hello Cher,
What a wonderful gift to perform together as a family. Your mom sounds like an incredible woman!
Julie Badie says
Hi Charisse my name is Julie and I live in Chicago. I play melodica and piano and would like to get involved in performing for nursing homes also. If you are looking for a musician or if you can offer some advice on what and how I can get started please let me know
Ellen Dow says
My brother recently passed away, and I would like to purchase a karaoke machine/system in his honor for the wonderful nursing home where he lived. The activities director asked me to make sure that the lyrics can be projected on a large screen, and I assume that relatively large print would be helpful. I would also like it to include a nice library of songs. I am hoping that you can provide some pointers on where I might purchase such a system and what else I might need o keep in mind. Thank you!
Diane says
Hello Ellen,
What a lovely gesture! As a volunteer, I haven’t been involved in the technical aspects of music programs, so I’m afraid I can’t be of much help in this area.
I’m wondering if any of my readers can offer advice? If so, please respond in the comment section.
T. Smith says
Diane-no problemo! We all have a Gift to offer and just starting out over my own passion, (Playing music to the Senior audiences), and initially going “solo” over much of it , which worked out Fine for quite a while. Once I had my “gigs” all lined up at various facilities, I discovered other fellow musicians, also interested in joining me. They arrived -totally equipped, not just with instruments, but with performance equipment-mics, speakers, etc, and with a background in stage performance. Though I had to adjust to playing with a mic , and playing more “front and center”, the entire Gig became so much more relaxing, being able to share the time playing our own familiar songs, or doing Imrov together. What my volunteer friend appreciated about Me was that I had managed the Nursing Home gigs in advance-all on my own, so she just had to show up, and I appreciated how much less stressful the programs became , even more fun, than when I’d stick to my own limited performance sans the back up or accompaniment , which did add to a lot more interest and vitality to the program for our listening audience!
Marcia says
I have been looking at karaoke systems too and found this one. It makes sense to me to use YouTube as their library is virtually unlimited. Looks as if you have several choices for lyric projection as well. https://www.rockvilleaudio.com/rpg8rwm1202vhledt5-karwal/?gclid=CjwKCAjw3_KIBhA2EiwAaAAlirtk7yOogf5BY0mBTOo8lSCgQcEl6Hns16zJ0wnJwktJnEFD_g1tWhoCr58QAvD_BwE
Ellen dow says
Thank you very much Marcia. That looks very good! When I started looking for reviews of this system, I discovered that Rockville makes quite a few other karaoke systems as well. What about this particular choice do you think makes it most suitable for use in a nursing home? Thanks again.
Marcia says
Frankly, I did not look at the other models, but I will now.
Ellen Dow says
Thanks. I will be anxious to hear what you think.
Stan Prentice says
Retired piano bar entertainer here, who also played assisted living facilities for many years. Are nursing homes allowing live entertainment yet, since we’re not quite past Covid?
Diane says
Hello Stan,
Thank you for your service to residents of assisted living communities! You asked a good question. Rules vary a great deal depending upon the COVID status of individual states and cities. I hope you’ll be able to find senior living communities that are able to safely allow live entertainment.
Stan says
Thank you, Diane. I’ll just start calling around, and see what answers I get. Thank you for this blog!
Stan
Charles Darden says
I play with a band but I am retired and play solo also.
A solo song:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HfT5YMemCNQ
Band Facebook page: …(I play bass in the band but place guitar for solo stuff)
https://www.facebook.com/MysteryMachineDMV
Band Website:
https://mysterymachinedmv.com/
Diane says
Hello Charles,
Thank you for sharing your music!
Marlene Paham Murphy says
I am a singer as a part of a trio. I have been performing in the Chicago area for about 5 years. I have performed at restaurants at restaurants nursing homes In private parties.. I am interested in performing at nursing homes in the Chicago land area insurance suburbs
Diane says
Hello Marlene,
Thank you for using your musical talent to serve residents of nursing homes!
Daniel Dunn says
I am an accomplished pianist , having played for some 65 years .
I can hardly believe that it has been almost 2 years that I have played at assisted living residences .
Although I have had both of my Covid19 vaccinations and a booster vaccination , I am still barred
from entering those residences …. this is very cruel to those residents …. most of these arbitrary
rules are political !
I am 74 years old and quite able to empathize with these residents , as I am probably not that far
from the same fate as my audiences .
Many times I have played for free…. and now the staff does not know me anymore .
Diane says
Hello Daniel,
I’m sorry this has been your experience. Let’s hope this awful pandemic ends soon, so we can get back to some semblance of normal life.
Daniel Dunn says
Diane , you probably know as well as I do that most of these musical savants performing at assisted
living residences are not worth what they are charging and are most likely friends of the activity director .
I used to work is assisted living before I retired …. I have seen this kind of corruption time and again .
whenever I offer to play for free , I usually get a cool reception …. it is all about the friendship game .
Yes …. covid19 has made everything worse !
Mary Peck says
I’m an entertainer in nursing homes. Would love to connect. http://www.Facebook.com/peckmarystagescreen
Diane says
Hello Mary,
Thanks for sharing your contact information. Would anyone else like to introduce yourself? This will be a good networking opportunity.
Daniel Dunn says
I decided to try one more time to get myself booked at a Assisted living residence .
I was successful , only because I brought ” proof ” that I am an accomplished Pianist .
The Activity Director was new and impressionable …. lucky me !
I still had to show proof of vaccinations and will have to wear a mask ( Ohio Regulations ) .
Will be paid $75 for one hour on December 13th.
I have not been able to get any gigs since March 2020 .
Much will depend on my ability to connect with my audience ( put on a show ) .
60’s & 70’s pieces …. that is what they want to hear !
Diane says
Hello Daniel,
Thanks for the update. Let’s hope it’s the beginning of many new opportunities to enrich the lives of elders.
Farah says
Thank you for this article!
My rising Sophomore is interested in volunteering at nursing homes or any senior facilities by playing music for them. Would you happen to have any connections or contacts for places in Jacksonville FL, that I could reach out to?
Thank you!
Diane says
Hello Farah,
I regret that I have no connections in the Jacksonville area. Can any of my readers help her out?
Daniel T. Dunn says
I am an accomplished pianist with many years of experience in assisted living and nursing homes .
My last gig was just before Christmas , and my only gig , for the past 2 years .
I not only had to wear a M95 mask and be boosted , I had to be isolated across the room .
This is late February now and things have not changed much in Massillon Ohio .
Unless an important holiday is about to come up , I don’t think this is going to be the time to canvas
these establishments . I do think that that gigging prospects are going to be much better in April .
For right now , keep bugging the Activity Directors and let them know you are interested .
Good Luck , you never know what that establishment is thinking !
Emily says
Hi Linda,
I’m thinking of performing songs at a couple assisted living centers nearby my house. I’ve been wanting to for awhile. I like being around older people (I also like old TV shows and movies, so I have some things in common with them.)
One of the things holding me back is, as I understand it, copyright law restricts people from performing songs that are copyrighted without permission, even if nothing is charged for the entertainment (the exception is if it’s at a school.) Speaking as non-legal expert, do you have any insight to offer on that? Or maybe you know something I don’t? I know so many people perform copyrighted songs all the time for nursing homes and such, and maybe they know something I don’t.
Thank you for your time!
Diane says
Hi Emily,
I’m so glad you asked this question because it’s one many of us have never considered. While I have no legal expertise, I did some searching online, and I can see where copyrights could be an issue.
I think it would be a travesty to deprive residents of senior living communities of the joy of music. I guess one way to get around this would be to stick with songs that have entered the public domain. (You can find lists online.) Many older adults enjoy this more traditional music anyway.
I would love to have others weigh in on this question. What is your experience?
Daniel Dunn says
I am an accomplished pianist , having composed and copyrighted several pieces . I don’t think that you
have anything to be concerned about here . I have been playing the piano for years at assisted living
residences , charging $75 for one hour . Playing for free never worked out for me . These residences
will take advantage of you , using and exploiting your talent .
I always end up taking my Kawai ES8 piano ( about 50 pounds ) with me , as most of these assisted living
pianos are inferior instruments . Years ago , I played mostly popular music from the 30’s and 40’s .
Times have changed ! What they like now is music from the 50’s , 60’s and 70’s . Many of these pieces
are my own sophisticated arrangements …. much like Liberace would play them . Hope this helps !
Cindy Kay Roberts says
I started playing the old (out of tune) piano at a state nursing home earlier this year; I have a Kawai digital concert piano that I use at home. As odd as it sounds, I love that old twangy piano, and the residents at the nursing home love for me to play it! My ‘fan club’ will sit and wait in their wheelchairs next to the piano, knowing what time I will arrive each week. At their request, I will play for 2 hours and it is a joy for me to give them delightful piano music. They love to hear old jazz songs, old hymns, ragtime, the Beatles, and Willie Nelson songs. We have so much fun visiting each week and I know their names. I feel blessed that I get to play piano for them. I also work with mules during the day – the piano brings culture to my life. Thank you for article.
DIck Healey says
I have two hour-long musical videos on my YouTube site (YouTube -Dick Healey)website which I developed at home in 2017 based on my part-time volunteer performances at various Greater Boston,MA Nursing Homes from 1991-thru 2016. I used to play piano singalong songs (Baby Face, Ain’t She Sweet, Let me call you Sweetheart, Heart of My Heart, Side by Side, Take me out to the ballgame, etc) But I stopped entertaining in 2016 because of my age and arthritis ( I’m now 85 year old). But these songs which I played at many Nursing Homes in the above period are now on my YouTube-dick Healey website free (absolutely no charge of any kind) but I have no promotion campaign and I’m not a member of those social internet programs like Twitter, Facebook, etc so few people know I’m there on YouTube.
Altogether I hav 50+ musical videos freely available on Youtube, but the two that are specific for Nursing Home entertainment are called “Dick Healey’s Singalong songs” and “DIck Healey’s Crooner songs”
I’m retired now and I have an adequate in come for my wife and myself, so NONE of these musical videos are for sale, so if interested in using them for your residents, just go to my YouTube-dick healey website and listen/watch these musical videos free. These are some of the most loved “oldies” songs enjoyed by most Nursing Home Residents. If you need the lyrics Most lyrics are freely available on the internet.
Omar Shah says
Hi there,
I am a singer from Sydney, Australia and I would love to offer my service to the home. I may most probably come to Vegas sometime next year to work. I have a wide range of repertoire mostly oldies and I am sure the folks would love it. I come with my own sound system and backing tracks. Do let me know if you are interested in having me.
Regards,
Omar
Bronton says
I have a working piano in Oakland Hills for free with your transport of it.
cheja18@gmail.com for info.
Daniel T Dunn says
I am an Accomplished Pianist and I can tell you that : Wood and steel traditional pianos are
extremely difficult to give away . The cost to keep one of these things in tune is prohibitive .
A good working digital piano is what nursing homes really need ! And as a assisted living
musician , this is what I really need too !! As for a portable concert grand Piano/Organ , one
can not do any better than a Kawai ES8 or ES120 .the sound is incredible and at a low price point …. just trying to help !
Diane says
I received this question from Paul. Can any of my readers help him out?
“I came across your website when I was searching for a musical program that visits elderly persons in their home.
My mom lives in Hicksville, NY and was wondering if you knew of any programs similar to yours in the Long Island area. I was hoping to set up a program for my mom that someone would entertain her in her house for an hour or so each week.
I am not sure if that exists, especially in the Hicksville area, but thought I would ask you to see if you had any suggestions.”
Tim Godfrey says
If I lived near you I would come and do a show for your mother. With the technology available now a singer can take a fully functional small speaker system and an iPad to the smallest venue and do a wonderful one hour show – and even put lyrics in LARGE fonts on a Roku TV ($100 investment in the TV)
I can help anyone who might be interested in doing this kind of work.
Ana says
I do this in assisted living facilities and nursing homes. I use my iPad, a small speaker, a small mixing board, a mic and stand, and connect it to their TV to project the lyrics. I use KaraFun for the tracks. There is a monthly fee, but it allows you to adjust the key or tempo of the song. Some tracks are just from YouTube. I am curious in others perspective of this. I know some people feel it’s cheesy, but it’s what I got for now. Any suggestions welcomed. Thank you for your comment.
Tim Godfrey says
It’s not cheesy. I agree with a previous comment that people seem to like hearing their songs the way they remember them. I have had this comment as well. As for your set up it sounds great. I use an app called ST3 which allows you to change tempo and key as well. It’s about $30 to buy but it requires you to purchase the songs which a I get from iTunes mostly for $1 each.
kiana mastrianni says
I was interested in this but was wondering if playing a wind instrument such as the saxophone is okay to play?
Diane says
Hi Kiana,
Absolutely! I’ve seen this done with a great response from the residents.
Daniel Dunn says
Nursing home residents will take any kind of music that you can give them , except rap music .
They apparently prefer guitar / Vocal music , in that most elderly residents grew up in the late 40’s to
early 50’s . In that I am 75 tears young and have played the piano 67 years , I understand that the piano days are numbered …. the piano generation has unfortunately died a slow death , starting in the late 60’s . As an accomplished pianist , I am probably at an advantage here , but for how long , is anyone’s guess !