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.
Arts in Care Homes Day: Thanking Bert Smith
This Arts in Care Homes Day, we’re taking the time to thank Moyness Care Home’s Activities Coordinator Bert Smith, who has championed live music for care homes in Dundee for over 30 years. As Bert approaches retirement, he is looking back on his career and years of work with Music in Hospitals & Care.
World Alzheimer’s Month: Lifting spirits in Cumbria
Our musician Andy McKay has been visiting wards and care homes across Barrow-in-Furness in Cumbria, where we have been able to share 29 hours of live music between September 2025 and May 2026. One of the spaces Andy visited is the Ramsey Unit at Furness General Hospital, an assessment unit for patients with organic illnesses such as dementia.
Read our latest annual report
In 2025/26 we focused on setting the right note for the future. Despite a challenging landscape, we are proud of what we have been able to achieve with your support.