Live music lifts spirits of veterans on VE Day

To commemorate Victory in Europe (VE) Day on 8 May, we are sharing two special live music experiences with veterans at the Linburn Centre in West Lothian and the Craigneuk Centre in North Lanarkshire.

For many veterans, music is more than just entertainment. It’s a lifeline that soothes, uplifts, and reconnects them with cherished memories. This year’s VE Day events will celebrate the resilience and sacrifices of those who served, with performances specially curated to bring joy and comfort.

Singer and guitarist Jason Sweeney, who has been working with Music in Hospitals & Care since 2014, is one of the musicians taking part. “I have the most fun ever with the veterans because you get a lot of banter with them,” Jason shares. “They’ve been through it all and it’s an absolute privilege to be able to play for them and spend time with them. I know how powerful music can be for people who can’t go to gigs. I’ve played at different veterans’ centres, and you can see the thread that runs through them – this sense of camaraderie. They’re all about having a good time and it’s great to spend time with them.”

The Linburn Centre is Sight Scotland’s activity hub in Wilkieston, West Lothian, and provides essential support to veterans who have been affected by sight loss.

Lorna Donaldson, Activity Worker at the Linburn Centre, describes the emotional impact that live music can have for the veterans they support: “One man often cries when he hears the music – it reminds him of his wife, who passed away eight years ago. Others get emotional too, especially with songs that bring back memories of their time in the Army. The music brings out different sides of people. So many sing along, they know all the words and feel at ease. They’re grateful for those moments and for still being here to remember them.”

The Craigneuk Centre in Wishaw, North Lanarkshire, houses a veterans community group run by Veterans Community Lanarkshire, a charity dedicated to supporting veterans and their families through a range of community-based initiatives.

Marina McQueer, Activities Coordinator at Veterans Community Lanarkshire explains the importance of live music to veterans: “Live music brings the room to life. Not only does it bring back sentimental memories, but it provides entertainment and a joyful atmosphere. Events like VE Day are important to everyone to remember the brave, and it reminds us of the sacrifices made by the generations before us. These events also help educate younger generations and bring people in the community together.”

We work with other charitable organisations to share the healing power of live music with veterans and their families in care and community settings across Scotland. For many, especially those who are isolated or in care, these musical moments offer comfort and an important sense of connection.