05/15/2026
They say music is the universal language, but sometimes itβs also a bridge to our most cherished memories. π·β¨
We recently received this incredible note from a customer we assisted last week that reminded us exactly why we do what we do. It involves a 92-year-old resident in long-term care, a 75-year hiatus from the saxophone, and the incredible breakthrough that happened when she picked it back up. Read this beautiful testament to the power of Music Therapy and the resilience of the human spirit:
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"My 92 year old mother is a resident in long term care. Last year, she told me that she once played the saxophone in her high school band and that the 95% she received in music had been her educational salvation. She had never shared this with me previously, despite my career as a fine arts administrator and art teacher with the OCDSB.
MUSICARE was recommended as the best place to rent an instrument. I explained the situation to them and they told me that had heard similar stories and that I would be surprised with the outcome.
Rachel, a certified music therapist, evaluated whether my mother had the ability to reconnect with her alto sax and after one session, was convinced that this was a worthy effort and that, with assistance, after a 75 year respite, my mother could play again.
The impact of the music therapy sessions with Rachel and the intern she supervises, Rebecca,
are so impressive. My mother, now in her 93rd year, rarely smiles and laughs, but during this special weekly half hour, she is a completely different person and revisits a wonderful time in her life. Rachel has structured her sessions to tap into my motherβs muscle memory for the instrument, and through breathing exercises and structured singing, has improved all aspects of her range. With assistance, my mother has been able to play familiar tunes.
My mother looks forward to playing every Sunday and the possibility of her sharing a short piece for her peers at her facility remains a realistic objective! Many thanks to MUSICARE for making this possible.- Irv"
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