Yesterday was the hottest day of the year so far and so that made me feel fatigued. It's a long drive (30 miles) to this nursing home and during rush hour traffic, so I had to psyche myself up for it. I was greatly rewarded for my efforts, as you will see.
As a therapeutic musician, sometimes it can be a challenge in that people see my music offering as a performance. At this nursing home, I usually sit in the middle of a big circle and play soothing instrumental guitar music. This is for "sundowning" time when folks are anxious and the music is to help calm them. Often times they applaud when I finish playing a piece and listen attentively. That is very nice but I would prefer they fall asleep. (therapeutic music is opposite to a performance)
Yesterday I had the inspiration to ask if there were residents who stayed in their rooms that I could play for one on one. It turns out there was someone who was bed ridden and I went to play for him for awhile as his eyes drooped and I could see he was about to fall asleep. Next I played for Ms. B. who is generally pretty agitated and the music appeared to calm her too. After that, I did play in the big circle until one of the nurses asked me to play for another resident who was set apart by the window in a corner crying. This is what I do best-one on one playing. I was so happy to feel I was being more useful (and not feeling like I was "performing"). On my way out that evening, I told one of the nurses I really enjoyed coming there and it inspires me. She said, "You bless us too." That was such a compliment. I drove all 30 miles home smiling and feeling good.
Check out the view across the street from this place pictured above. Just beautiful!
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