Andrew Ford is a multi-instrumentalist specialising in creating holistic, therapeutic sounds with a selection of instruments including the hang drum, native American drone flute and sansula kalimba.
Andrew’s compositions are free flowing improvisational pieces based on rhythm, tempo, melody and the contrast between stimulating and relaxing sounds and vibrations.
“Andrew is a sensitive and intuitive performer. The students and staff were spellbound! Some students were so calm they fell asleep and adults commented on the lovely energy that Andrew brought to the room.”
When did you first get involved with MiHC and why?
“I first got involved with MiHC in May 2016. At the time, I was volunteering at the CHASE children’s hospice running weekly music relaxation sessions. I was introduced to MiHC by Phoebe and I was excited by the prospect of being able to share my music with even more people who might not normally get a chance to hear it.
What’s your favourite thing about performing for MiHC?
I’d say one of my favourite things about performing for MiHC is seeing people’s faces light up when I introduce them to an instrument that they may have never seen before.
It’s such a joy to invite patients or service users, both young and old, to play the Hang or Sansula. To hear them explore their own music.
I feel so privileged to be able to share music with people from all walks of life.
Kindness in harmony at Companies House
This Random Acts of Kindness Day, we are celebrating the Companies House choir in Cardiff, which brings colleagues together to boost wellbeing and raise funds for Music in Hospitals & Care.
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.