I have remarked on the power of music before. Today's visit to my wife's home showed me just what effect it can have. Residents from both floors, visitors and staff were entertained by a talented young couple who played guitar and fiddle and sang. We were treated to a mixture of jigs, reels and traditional songs such as the lovely Water of Tyne. We sang Happy Birthday to one resident. My restless wife settled in a few minutes and we listened together, hand in hand except when she wanted to applaud. Just before the final song (the Geordie anthem) one wheelchair bound resident shouted a request for Jimmy Nail's Big River but the performers did not know it. Next time, perhaps.
Then, for a few minutes - as my wife and others started to sing along to the Blaydon Races and those with tambourines raised them in the air - it was possible to put aside all the difficulties that the residents face and share their joy.
As John Miles put it:
"To live without my music
Would be impossible to do
In this world of troubles
My music pulls me through"
Then, for a few minutes - as my wife and others started to sing along to the Blaydon Races and those with tambourines raised them in the air - it was possible to put aside all the difficulties that the residents face and share their joy.
As John Miles put it:
"To live without my music
Would be impossible to do
In this world of troubles
My music pulls me through"
Last edited: