Richard Robling, has been working with us in Wales since 2015. Richard is popular in hospital wards and care homes alike with his upbeat covers of classic tunes spanning the decades.
What made you want to become a Music in Hospitals & Care musician?
I was looking for something musical to do during the day, around six years ago I’d say. I had started a new business, publishing a community magazine and found I had some time and flexibility. I had sung and played in care homes a little and had read about the benefits of music for people with dementia. There was an article about Music in Hospitals (as it was then known) in a local publication and I called them immediately. I was invited to audition soon after and, thankfully, I was accepted. It’s joyous when someone who is seemingly not able to communicate, suddenly starts singing or interacting – almost miraculous. It can be emotional and it’s a privilege!
What have been some of your highlights?
A particular highlight was during my audition at a care home in Cardiff. I was performing Eidelweiss, when a lady suddenly got to her feet, stood beside me and took over the singing — priceless — and I think that’s what got me hooked. I’ve enjoyed doing Lullaby Hour too. On one occasion, in Swansea I think, a young girl stood beside me the whole time, singing along, bowing at the end of each number. Then, as I left, a hand-drawn card was handed to me with a list of songs I could play for her next time. These are precious moments!
How have you found the live stream Music & Memories sessions so far?
It can’t possibly be the same as having an audience in the same room but nevertheless, aided by a couple of requests, thank yous and general comments, I did get a feeling that I was entertaining. A home in Scotland asked me to settle an argument as to whether, due to lockdown, I was wearing pyjama trousers. I wasn’t! They were linen, but that was good interaction and good fun. I read Paul Kerr’s account of his live stream concerts. He said he was able to close his eyes and imagine the ladies in gents there is front of him – I think I did a fair bit of that too.
An unforgettable evening of wine, music and song
Join us on Thursday 24 September at the historic St James Garlickhythe Church in central London for a very special evening of live music. Guests will enjoy wine and canapés from 6:30pm, with music starting at 7:30pm until around 9:20pm. Buy your tickets here.
Celebrating Make Music Day with more interactive Music Jams
Our Music Jam initiative is due to be rolled out to hospitals across the UK after demonstrating for more than a decade the positive impact it has on the mental health and wellbeing of patients in Edinburgh.
Carers’ Week at Murrayfield Memory Lane Café
It’s Carers Week, and we’re highlighting the power of live music to transform dementia-friendly spaces into vibrant hubs that help to reduce anxiety and confusion of people affected by memory loss.