The sound of the most exquisite music could be heard at Mercy Place Lathlain in late July, as residents were treated to a mini concert as part of the West Australian Symphony Orchestra’s (WASO) community outreach program.
More than a dozen residents, and a number of lucky staff, were captivated throughout the 45-minute performance, which saw a spectacular string ensemble perform an intimate concert of exhilarating and joyful music, from Beethoven to jazz as well as a number of popular classics, all of which sent seniors on a trip down memory lane.
And according to Mercy Place Lathlain Service Manager, Ven Gireddy, residents absolutely loved every minute of the concert.
“The performance was very well received, it was a huge treat for our seniors and they thoroughly enjoyed it,” said Mr Gireddy, who confirmed the performance was also a first for one staff member who had never experienced the thrill and joy of a string quartet before.
“We had some residents swinging their hips and others who live with dementia extremely animated and joyous, our seniors were totally captivated and I think they could have listened to them all morning.”
Alena Tompkins, WASO Executive Manager, Community engagement, explains that the organisation runs a program of concerts within Perth’s aged care centres to bring music to older people who ordinarily wouldn’t be easily able to access it.
“As the State Orchestra, we are dedicated to reaching as many West Australians as possible with our musical experiences, from concert halls and classrooms to hospitals and aged care,” she says.
“Our aim is to bring joy and nurture participation in our community, because we believe everybody deserves the opportunity to experience live music, and our professional musicians are always very happy to perform in aged care homes. Performing at Mercy Place Lathlain was particularly fulfilling for them as they were so warmly welcomed.”
Mercy Health is a Catholic community not for profit provider of care, founded by the Sisters of Mercy and grounded in a 2000 year history of caring for those in need. The organisation is a national service provider of health and aged care throughout Queensland, Southern New South Wales, Western Australia, Victoria and the Australian Capital Territory.