Residents of local care facilities enjoy on-site live music.
On Monday, March 30th-31st, InConcert Sierra, with support from Foothills Compassionate Care, Nevada County’s nonprofit hospice care, presented “Music on Wheels,” an in-person concert experience for residents of Artia Grass Valley, Brunswick Village, Eskaton, Cascades of Grass Valley, Hilltop Commons, and Sierra View Senior Living.
The performances featured the string duet “Emerald Duo,” with Susan Doerling on violin and Dieter Wulfhorst on violoncello.
InConcert Sierra is a nonprofit classical music organization located in Nevada County that presents exceptional classical and choral performances to inspire and enhance cultural life. The organization offers a warm, inclusive community for enjoying music and provides educational opportunities for youth and adults.
“Foothills Compassionate Care is proud to support InConcert Sierra’s Music on Wheels program, bringing high-quality live performances to members of our community,” remarked Elizabeth Dreher, Community Relations Manager at Foothills Compassionate Care. “Through programs like this, music is a gift of comfort, connection, and shared humanity.”
Music has been studied for its positive effects in elder care and its influence on aging and memory care populations. In 2023, The Fischer Center for Alzheimer’s Research released a report noting that “Nursing home residents, including those with dementia who listened to enjoyable music showed fewer signs of agitation, aggression, and other behavioral issues than residents who didn’t receive the music intervention.” Music soothes the soul and brings joy throughout every stage of life.
The concert experience included nearly twenty songs including “Fly Me to the Moon” and “What a Wonderful World.” Residents got to enjoy the music as a community, and residents were heard singing and humming along to their favorites.