Music Program at Toronto Grace
The Music Program at The Salvation Army Toronto Grace Health Centre (TGHC) focuses on bringing high-quality live music to the patients and their family members to create a welcoming environment and improve their overall experience at the TGHC. The program is made possible by the support of a variety of volunteer artists from the community who have partnered with us to perform music sessions and concerts.
The core of these activities is to encourage engagement and participation in the creative experience. Our artists have an understanding of the unique needs of the patients, the performances and activities are often adapted to make it more accessible to their physical and cognitive capabilities.
Our first musical event was held in 2003 and was enthusiastically received by patients, family members and staff. Two talented musicians, a jazz singer and pianist, got the concert series off to a great start. Since that time we have been organizing a range of concerts and performances on a regular basis. Our musician volunteers have found it to be a rewarding experience and in return, has transformed the way they perform.
Music Matinee (On Patient Care Units)
Music Matinee offers an informal musical performance on our patient units. Pianists, guitarists or vocalists play from a selection of music. They also get creative with the music offered during this session to bring comfort and joy to patients and their families. They are encouraged to play diverse genres of music and to adjust their repertoire depending on the audience and context. Although the program does not require physical participation from patients, our aim is to create a space for the performers and audience to gather and share our uniquely individual experiences through music. Patients and family members enjoy the relaxing and uplifting music on the units and often request songs that have special meaning in their lives.
Therapeutic Recreation
Music has always been incorporated into Therapeutic Recreation programs to increase social interaction when dining together, to set the mood in a seated yoga class, and/or to relax in a sensory stimulation session. In these following group programs, music is the key component used to achieve the desired therapeutic goals for the patients:
Sit ‘N Dance: As a form of exercise, dancing to a recognizable song can help increase flexibility, overall strength and endurance. The joy of “dancing” to a tune also aids in reducing stress levels. Patients “let loose” while doing the “cha-cha” or executing the “port-de-bras” movement in the ballet adagio.
Drumming Circle: In the drumming circle, patients learn to listen, pay attention to the beat of the drum and express themselves through drumming. The program provides a sense of community in the group while expressing one self.
Music Concerts: Listening to familiar songs and singing along have tremendous effect on one’s memory and numerous health benefits. Music can help alleviate pain, reduce anxiety, assist with speech impairments and bring much joy. One group of volunteer musicians performs a variety of songs from the “oldies” to the latest hits. The other group of volunteer musicians create a soothing environment while performing classical/instrumental pieces.
Alzheimer’s Society Music Project: The patients are assessed at the time of admission to determine if they fit the criteria to receive a free IPod from the Alzheimer’s Society. Patient’s music preferences are downloaded onto the IPod to listen and enjoy.
Spiritual & Religious Care Program
The Spiritual Care team has two Chapel services a Week – Thursday & Sunday. It has been said many times that ‘Music blesses the Soul’. This is observed so many times when those who attend Chapel sing the hymns. When our volunteer pianist plays a special piece of music or does a vocal item, the music speaks to the soul!
TV Channel 78 the Hospitality Network is available on all TVs in patient’s rooms (even when not paying for a tv) and in the patient lounges. Channel 78 provides Christian music, and patients can engage with material from other spiritual traditions.
Visiting musical groups are also booked for sharing their spiritual music throughout the halls at the Toronto Grace.
Toronto Grace Volunteers play an important role in the Music Program at the Toronto Grace. They share their Volunteer stories.
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