Care home residents from across Dorset have enjoyed a special musical afternoon in Bournemouth.
Almost 60 residents and carers from Care South homes were welcomed to JPMorganChase’s Bournemouth campus for a two-hour event, featuring afternoon tea and a concert from an 18-piece Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra ensemble.
The performance was created to encourage memories, conversation and participation, with guests invited to sing and dance along. Music included numbers from My Fair Lady, Mary Poppins and South Pacific, as well as A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square and Moon River.
Residents travelled from Care South homes in Bournemouth, Poole, Ferndown, Ringwood and Weymouth for the event, which brought together Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, Care South and JPMorganChase.
Ron, who lives at Wickmeads care home in Tuckton, said it brought back “so many happy memories” of playing in bands and orchestras. He added that his brother had been part of the BSO.
Dee, whose husband Philip lives at Fairlawn care home in Ferndown, said they both enjoyed the chance to make new memories together, adding that they love classical music.
The afternoon also included a performance from JPMorganChase’s Bournemouth staff choir during the interval.
The BSO has recently partnered with Care South’s Marjorie House in Lilliput to provide monthly live music recitals from professional musicians. Performances include duets, classical pieces and music inspired by residents’ own tastes and interests.
Simon Bird, Care South’s Chief Executive, said it was “a pleasure” to welcome residents from across Dorset.
