Photo: Sylvia with Chief Executive Barbara Osborne and Head of Music Delivery Claire Owen.
It is with great sadness we share the news that Sylvia Lindsay has passed away. Sylvia was the Director for the Council for Music in Hospitals, later to become Music in Hospitals & Care, for 20 years from 1972 to 1992.
Having spent ten years as a pianist for the charity before becoming Director, Sylvia knew first-hand the joy live music brings to people in hospitals and care.
Sylvia played a hugely important role in the shaping and history of Music in Hospitals & Care and saved the charity from near closure in the 1970s. Her personal contribution will continue to be celebrated, especially as we enter our 75th year in 2023.
In 2018, for the Charity’s 70th anniversary, Sylvia reflected on her experience of Music in Hospitals & Care. Five years on, her words are still true to our purpose. We will continue to uphold Sylvia’s passion for sharing professional live music in health and care settings for many more years to come.
If you would like to share a personal message or particular memory of Sylvia, please do email hello@mihc.org.uk and we will pass these on to her family.
A memorable evening of Wine, Music and Song
Thank you to everyone who joined us and supported the Wine, Music and Song event. With music spanning centuries, the evening was a celebration of music in its many different roles.
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.