Our Musician Spotlight for March is Satnam Galsian, who joined us in 2019 and is a favourite on hospital wards in the Leeds area for her performances with musical partner Lisa. They blend British folk and traditional Indian songs with contemporary compositions and arrangements.
How did you first get involved with Music in Hospitals & Care?
I auditioned as part of a duo with my friend Lisa Marie Glover. We’d both seen an advert on Facebook and decided to apply. Working for Music in Hospitals & Care appealed to me as I am a firm believer in the health benefits of music on the mind and body.
What are some of your highlights?
My highlights so far have been observing some of fellow Music in Hospitals & Care musician Holly Marland’s sessions at the Manchester Royal Infirmary and seeing how the patients reacted to her music. Another memory which stands out for me is when when we performed at the Leeds General Infirmary; the staff asked if I could sing an Indian song as there was a South Asian lady on one of the wards. I did, she clapped and danced in her wheelchair. It was nice to be able to use languages that she was familiar with to engage with her.
What does music mean to you and how has it helped you during the pandemic?
To me, music is like a friend that I can always rely on, whether I’m singing or listening to music it always makes me feel good. During lockdown I’ve been on an emotional ‘corona-coaster’ so to speak, feeling up sometimes and down at other times and occasionally both on the same day! Having different musical projects to work on during the pandemic has provided me with motivation and given me something positive to focus on.
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.