Care England: creating musical moments for residents

Retirement home residents are among the most isolated groups in society and have few opportunities to participate in cultural activities. Vialma, the classical music and jazz streaming service, recognized this challenge and organized a free live streaming event with the London Symphony Orchestra and another with the London Philharmonic Orchestra for 80 care homes across England.

By offering a unique and engaging experience, Vialma sought to create a positive impact on the mental health and well-being of care home residents.

Vialma worked closely with the two London phalanges to organize the live streaming event. The event was designed as a “Concert Night,” where residents of nursing homes could gather to watch the concert and discuss it with the musicians through an online chat. Conductor Marta Gardolinska and four musicians from the LSO participated in the chat and gladly answered the (numerous!) questions from the public. Vialma provided the streaming platform and technical support to ensure a seamless viewing experience for all participants, as well as a listening guide for the audience to replicate the experience of a real concert hall!

The Concert Evenings were a great success, and the participating retirement homes shared their positive reactions. Radnor House reported “very good attendance” and Rosclare Nursing Home said the music experience was “welcome” and “beneficial for all residents, especially people with dementia.” The event was a unique opportunity for care home residents to participate in cultural activities, socialize with peers, and connect with internationally renowned musicians. The event also highlighted the potential of technology to bring joy and entertainment to the most vulnerable people in society.

The Vialma Concert Evenings demonstrated the power of music to bring joy and entertainment to residents of nursing homes. The event was a unique opportunity for residents to participate in cultural activities and connect with musicians.