Charlotte, NC

I was readin’ recently about The Charlotte Symphony’s Healing Hand troupe and how successful it’s been over the past ten years. Listen — this is something that I know from personal experience is a wonderfully therapeutic (as well as just downright satisfying) mission.

Y’see, about ten times a year, the Orchestra sends small groups of musicians to play in hospitals and retirement communities around our region. The benefits, of course, are gratifying: Seeing older couples remembering the songs they fell in love with; individuals recalling when they danced to this-or-that tune; or just melodies they can tap their foot or clap their hands to.

But there’s more to it than that. Here’s how I know:

Years ago, my daddy taught Sunday-School lessons at Tipton Brothers Nursing Home near Matthews — then went back in the afternoon (at 2:00 PM) to visit and, on occasion, bring a special bluegrass, gospel or children’s group with him. Sometimes, members of Stough Memorial’s choir would visit to sing old hymns.
Not only did the residents love the music — either tapping their feet, clapping or occasionally shouting in delight — but the director of the Home said that it boosted their spirits and actually made them feel physically better!

Shakespeare once said, “Music hath charms to soothe the savage breast,” and nowhere is that more evident than in the fine work these young people do with The Healing Hand. Whether it’s at Presbyterian Hospital, Southminster Retirement Community or wherever, flutist Amy Whitehead, violinist Elizabeth Pistolesi cellist Deborah Kauffman Mishoe and/or others provide excellent inspiration, therapy — and just plain happiness — wherever they appear.
(Their next performance, by the way, will be at Presbyterian Hospital on December 15).

I suppose the best synopsis of their effect (and that of anyone who reaches out to the elderly and ill in a positive way) was offered by Ms. Whitehead: “You can see light across people’s faces. You can sense that you’re reaching them on some level.”
And I can tell ya first-hand, that’s the absolute truth …

WHO’S THE DADDY?

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