“…The Music Therapy of which I had no knowledge. I was astounded to see people listlessly sitting in wheelchairs becoming alert and joining in the rhythms. And eyes as dull as pebbles began to shine. And I felt so much better.”

…review from The Highgate’s Facebook page

“It’s very clever how you bring people back to life!”

…resident

“I hope many people are confirming to you your positive contribution to The Highgate & the wonderful way you are bringing people both more alert individually and sharing together.”

…email from resident’s relative

“We're so grateful for all you’ve done with dad because it has been the music that has got Dad to join in. Before that we couldn't get him to do anything.”

…daughter of resident

“It makes us all feel better, the whole place!”

“All the residents seem far jollier after [music therapy] each week”

…carer comments in qualitative research into music therapy provision at The Highgate

‘We observed group music sessions… facilitated by a music therapist.

We saw they fully engaged all the people who participated in the groups. Following each group session, they visited people who were unable to leave their rooms and engaged them in individual activities.’

‘The music therapist visited the home on a regular basis and had set up playlists for people based on their musical preferences which were used by staff in other one to one and group sessions.’

We also observed an interactive music therapy session where people played percussion instruments and were each given an opportunity to choose the music that they wished to be played.’

‘Comments received from people included,

"The music therapy, I really like it.

"The activities are very good and music is my favourite on Thursdays, he's wonderful!"

‘We observed a music therapy session which included eleven residents, each one in possession of an instrument which the therapist encouraged them to play.

This was a very inclusive session which engaged all eleven people, regardless of disability or musical ability.

‘Two people spoke very highly of the input of the music therapist who ran group activities as well as visiting people in their rooms

‘One person said 'the music appreciation group helps to build up contacts [between people living in the home].'