Musician Moments: Hedley Kay

Our musicians have been speaking about some of the most significant moments they have experienced whilst sharing Joy Through Live Music with Music in Hospitals & Care.

Singer/guitarist Hedley Kay is one of our longest serving musicians and has been working with us across the UK for over 40 years.

“Some years ago I was performing for a group of young people with special educational needs; a boy of about sixteen was standing nearby, so I asked him if he would like to play my guitar. He was non-verbal, but his body language indicated that he would be happy to give this a try. I gently put the strap over his head, and having showed him how to strum, stood back so he was in full control of the instrument. After a while I removed the guitar by drawing the strap back over his head and the staff were absolutely amazed. Apparently he did not usually like anything over his head, but somehow through the musical experience we were able to share this moment with the instrument.”

Student Volunteering Week: Molly

It’s Student Volunteering Week, and we’re celebrating the important role student volunteers play in helping us share the joy of live music with communities across the UK.

Children’s Mental Health Week: Reuben’s Retreat

We’ve been sharing the joy of live music with children, their families and staff at Reuben’s Retreat in Glossop. The sessions are designed to soothe and support children with life limiting illnesses and offer an opportunity for families to connect with others who understand their experience.

Special live music for Burns Night

Burns Night celebrates the poems and songs of Scotland’s national bard Robert Burns and his lasting legacy. Our musician John Davidson is sharing two special live music experiences at Woodend Hospital in Aberdeen to commemorate the day.