A NEW music program being introduced by the St Vincent de Paul Society’s youth ministry in Queensland is aiming to bring the generations closer.
Through the Music 4 Life program, young volunteers with a musical talent will visit nursing homes, hospitals and respite and disability centres across Brisbane to serenade residents and patients.
The aim is to make a difference to the lives of both the listeners and the volunteers.
The Music 4 Life program was the brainchild of 20 year-old student nurse Laura Stephensen, who recognised the positive impact music had on residents during her regular work experience in aged care facilities.
The Vinnies volunteer said live music provided not only entertainment, but also an opportunity for interaction between younger people and the older residents and patients.
“Live music provides a base for entertainment and positive interaction, leading to improved quality of life and enjoyment for all participants,” she said.
“During training volunteers will be given tips on the type of music residents enjoy, but the song choices will be up to them.
“We will also give them tips on engaging with the audience during training.”
The Music 4 Life program provides an extension to the society’s core activity of home visitation, bringing together young people and the elderly in a way that crosses demography and culture, health and spiritual inclination.
Laura said volunteers had to undergo a Blue Card background check, register with the society and complete a specially prepared training session.
She said the Music 4 Life program was not limited to people who could perform a Beethoven symphony or croon the hits from stage and screen.
She said the program also needed volunteer facilitators to assist the musicians with appropriate music selection, performance considerations, provide energy and enthusiasm to a performance and encourage positive interactions between the generations.
To volunteer e-mail Laura at m4l_svdp@hotmail.com
