Music session, Ward 37, York Hospital
21 MAY 2025
Rachael Daggett, Art and Design Project Officer, manages the music programme for York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. Rachael explains how important the music sessions are on Ward 37 in York and is grateful to York & Scarborough Hospitals Charity for their support.
"Sarah Dean delivers a weekly session playing the harp and singing for patients on Ward 37 in York which cares for patients living with Dementia.
Rachael goes on "Music and language are stored in opposite sides of the brain. The side that deals with speaking tends to deteriorate more quickly than the side that deals with music and rhythm. We see patients ‘come awake’ when they recognise a song. Their faces light up, a musical memory is triggered, and they will join in singing the song.
"Sometimes this can lead to conversations. The atmosphere can change from week to week. Sometimes patients are agitated, and music can distract them and calm them down. Some patients really enjoy dancing and will get up and either dance with staff, other patients or on their own.
"Sarah has been moved when she’s seen spouses come to visit and then dance closely with their partners to her music. Visitors enjoy seeing their loved ones enjoying themselves and being engaged. One visitor, amused at the level of participation taking place said to Sarah, 'What do they put in the water here?' I answered, ‘music!.’
"Sarah has also started performing on Critical Care at York which can bring a great comfort to relatives who can often be distressed. Sarah recently asked a relative if she had any requests and the relative simply said 'I am just enjoying listening to the music'".
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