OPUS’ Response to the Climate Emergency

OPUS' Response to the Climate Emergency

Continuing Our Journey

In 2022, we shared our commitment to addressing the climate crisis, recognising the role we play as musicians working in health and social care. Since then, we’ve continued to explore how we can embed sustainability into our practice, both in our everyday operations and through our artistic work.

Collaborating with Dave McKenny

As part of our ongoing response to the climate emergency, we have taken inspiration from an exploratory session with climate activist and Healthcare Musician Dave McKenny. We’ve been developing creative responses that intertwine care for the planet, care for each other, and care for ourselves.

Our collaboration has led to thought-provoking discussions, artistic explorations, and new musical compositions that reflect on our collective responsibility to nurture the world around us. One of these pieces, In This Moment, emerged from our initial development day where we delved into themes of environmental stewardship and human connection.

Capturing the Moment: Recording at Old Hall Farm Studios

This week, we took another step forward in bringing our artistic response to life. At Old Hall Farm Studios, we recorded four-part harmony backing vocals for In This Moment, a powerful and reflective piece composed by Rich. The lyrics, “in this moment, we’ll make it through somehow”, capture a sense of resilience and hope in the face of global challenges.

The recording session was a moving experience, reinforcing the importance of using music as a medium to inspire change and foster deeper conversations around care. As musicians, we believe in the power of sound and storytelling to create emotional connections and motivate action.

Looking Ahead

Our work with Dave McKenny is just one part of our commitment to sustainability and climate-conscious practice. As we move forward, we will continue to:

Reduce our environmental impact by making thoughtful choices in our travel, materials, and energy use.
Embed climate-conscious themes into our training and performances, encouraging dialogue and action.
Explore further collaborations that connect music with environmental and social care.

We look forward to sharing the musical output from this work, and hope that they resonate with you and spark reflection on how we can collectively care for our planet and each other.

Thank you for being part of this journey with us. Let’s continue to make meaningful change, one note at a time.

OPUS’ Response to the Climate Emergency

OPUS’

Chris’ Story

Music has the power to heal, comfort, and uplift, even in the most challenging moments of life. For Chris and his mum, Marianne, music became a lifeline during a long and difficult journey through illness, and its impact continues to resonate in their lives today.

OPUS Music Training at Mansfield Community Hospital

OPUS Music recently delivered an invigorating and deeply engaging music training session at Mansfield Community Hospital, as part of our ongoing partnership with Sherwood Forest Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

Chris & Marianne's Story

A Journey of Hope and Healing

Chris was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL) at the age of 19. It was an overwhelming diagnosis for someone so young, and the path that lay ahead was anything but easy. But even through the darkest days of treatment, there was a spark of hope—Tuesdays. Every fortnight, OPUS Music CIC visited Chris on the ward at Leicester Children’s Hospital, bringing with them an opportunity to make music, to express emotions, and to escape the world of medical interventions, if only for a little while.

“OPUS were a truly wonderful support to Chris when on the Ward,” says Marianne. “Through his darkest days in treatment, Tuesdays were something to look forward to, and they really did make a difference to his mental health.”

Music became more than just a distraction for Chris. It was a source of joy and connection, a way to channel his creativity during a time when much of his life felt out of control. Every session was a collaborative experience, with Chris and Marianne making music together alongside the OPUS musicians. These moments were filled with laughter, creativity, and expression—things that can often feel out of reach in a hospital environment.

Even the hospital staff, witnessing the transformation music could bring, were keen to get involved. They would continue making music with Chris in OPUS’s absence, helping to maintain the sense of joy and connection beyond the sessions. Part of OPUS Music CIC’s mission is to enable more healthcare staff to incorporate music into their everyday care of patients—benefiting not just the patients and families but creating a calming and connected atmosphere for the staff, too.

“As you can see in the pictures, his face says it all,” Marianne adds.

Those pictures capture not just a young man in treatment, but a young man rediscovering joy and a sense of purpose, even amidst the toughest of challenges. For Chris, those music sessions weren’t just about surviving—they were about thriving.

Chris is now nearly three years in remission, but his journey with music didn’t stop when he left the hospital. The creativity he nurtured during his time in treatment continues to inspire him today. He has carried that musical spark into his life, exploring performance and music-making beyond the walls of the hospital.

“We first met Chris and Marianne at Leicester Children’s Hospital, and we were instantly struck by Chris’s enthusiasm and creativity. It was an honour to make music with him, and we are thrilled to see that his passion for creativity has flourished.” – Nick Cutts, CEO, OPUS Music CIC

Music, as we’ve seen in Chris’s story, doesn’t just heal in the moment. It plants a seed for something deeper—a long-lasting boost to health and well-being that continues to grow even after treatment ends. It strengthens the bond between families and offers a way to communicate and connect when words are not enough.

At OPUS Music CIC, we believe in the power of music to make a difference in the lives of young people and their families. Chris’s story is just one example of how music can help carry people through the most difficult times and continue to bring light, joy, and well-being long after.

We are proud to have been part of Chris’s journey, and we look forward to continuing to support more people, like Chris, on their path to healing and beyond.

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OPUS’ Response to the Climate Emergency

OPUS’

Chris’ Story

OPUS Music Training at Mansfield Community Hospital

OPUS Music Care Training at Mansfield Community Hospital

A Day of Music and Inspiration

OPUS Music recently delivered an invigorating and deeply engaging Music Care training session at Mansfield Community Hospital, as part of our ongoing partnership with Sherwood Forest Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (SFHFT). Led by longstanding OPUS musicians Sarah Matthews and Oli Matthews, the session was designed to explore how music can enrich patient care, enhance the hospital environment, and support the wellbeing of staff and visitors alike.

The training brought together 15 care staff members—including Healthcare Assistants, Therapists, and Volunteers—from across the Sherwood Forest Hospitals Foundation Trust. It was a day filled with music-making, lively discussions, and thoughtful reflection, all with the goal of embedding more music into the daily routines of care staff across the Trust.

A Musical Approach to Care

Sarah Matthews, reflecting on the experience, captured the spirit of the day perfectly:

“We were working with 15 members of care staff, including Healthcare Assistants, Therapists, and Volunteers, from across the Sherwood Forest Hospitals Foundation Trust. The day included exploring making music with instruments and voices, lively discussion around relevant daily care environments and relating music to those experiences, and deep reflection and planning for what might be possible for future music within their care roles. What an amazing day!”

This session was part of our ongoing effort to transform hospitals into more musical, healing environments. By introducing simple, accessible musical practices into care, staff can create more positive, calming atmospheres that benefit both patients and caregivers. The training encouraged participants to explore music’s potential, not just as a form of entertainment, but as a tool for communication, comfort, and connection.

Kerry, a Critical Care Nurse from Kings Mill Hospital, found the day particularly enlightening:

“And it’s been an absolutely enlightening, brilliant day where we learned how empowering it is to bring music and percussion to the outstanding care that we deliver to our patients every day.”

Inspiring Change

OPUS Music’s work with Sherwood Forest Hospitals is supported by charitable funds, which have made it possible for us to run these transformative sessions. Jo Thornley, Community Involvement Manager at Sherwood Forest Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, expressed her delight in seeing the positive impact of our training on both staff and patients:

“I am delighted to have been involved with such an inspiring team. Everyone at OPUS has been a pleasure to work with, and it is amazing to see the positive impact that their visits and training sessions have on everyone involved. This programme is a great example of how charitable funds can be utilised to enrich the patient and visitor experience in our hospitals as well as support the wellbeing of our staff.”

Tailoring Music to Care Environments

Each OPUS Music training session is unique, shaped by the specific needs and experiences of the staff in the room. Genny Cotroneo, OPUS Music’s Training and Learning Manager, explained how the team ensures the sessions are relevant and practical for everyone:

“It’s important to us at OPUS that everyone in the room finds techniques that are relatable to their wards, so each training day is different depending on the staff in the room. In this session, we had therapists and support staff from all three Mansfield Community Hospital wards and the Acute Critical Care Unit, along with volunteers from King’s Mill Hospital. Although everyone’s experiences are all so different, it is clear that patient care is the priority for everyone at SFH, and there were some great conversations about the benefit of adding more music into their wards. Everyone at Mansfield Community Hospital was warm and accommodating, making it a lovely environment for learning.”

Lauren, a Critical Care Occupational Therapist from Kings Mill Hospital, shared her perspective on the practical applications of music in care:

“From an occupational therapy perspective, it’s been a great opportunity to look at how we can actually apply music to our day-to-day practice. It’s a great opportunity for patients to actually get hands on with the musical instruments as well as singing and even a bit of dancing if they want to. So it’s a great form of rehab for our patients here at Kings Mill Hospital.”

Music as a Therapeutic Tool

The staff at Mansfield Community Hospital embraced the potential of music, and many were inspired by the idea that music doesn’t always have to be loud or complex to be effective. Ros Roddy, Matron at Mansfield Community Hospital, highlighted this realization:

“Staff at Mansfield Community Hospital found the training inspiring and exhilarating. They didn’t realise that music can be silent; it does not have to be loud and banging, it can be calm and soothing to be therapeutic to meet the mood of the patient.”

This insight is central to OPUS Music’s approach: music as a flexible, adaptable tool that can be tailored to the needs of each individual. Whether it’s a quiet, reflective moment with a patient or an upbeat, energising atmosphere for group activities, music can play a vital role in the holistic care of patients.

Continuing the Journey

Our work with Sherwood Forest Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is an ongoing partnership aimed at creating a “musical hospital”—a place where music is embedded into the fabric of care. By equipping staff with the skills and confidence to incorporate music into their daily routines, we are helping to enhance the health and wellbeing of patients, families, and staff.

Thanks to our ongoing partnerships with Room 217 in Canada we were able to deliver this Music Care training.

We look forward to more inspiring sessions like this one as we continue our journey to make music an integral part of healthcare, and we will continue to work with these staff on embedding the use of music as part of their Music Care training.

“It was such an inspiring day and interesting to learn that music can be quiet and soft but also noisy and change depending on the patient”

Celebrating Excellence with SFHFT

Celebrating Excellence Day at Sherwood Forest Hospitals Trust

Joining together with healthcare professionals to celebrate SFHFT achievements

On 16th October 2024, we at OPUS Music CIC were thrilled to be part of Sherwood Forest Hospitals Foundation Trust’s Celebrating Excellence Day. It was a wonderful opportunity to share our work on building a “musical hospital,” bringing music into the heart of patient care. Our musicians performed live throughout the day, creating moments of connection and joy for staff and patients alike.

“What a fantastic day at Sherwood Forest Hospitals Foundation Trust (SFHFT) Celebrating Excellence Day! We had a great time sharing music and our work on building a musical hospital, bringing the joy and health and wellbeing benefits of music to patients and staff alike.

A big thank you to NHS Charities Together, Sherwood Forest Hospitals Charity and Arts Council England for their generous support to enable this to happen, and to SFHFT for their brilliant partnership in making this vision a reality.

Together, we’re creating a space where music transforms care, lifting spirits and enhancing wellbeing.” – Nick Cutts, CEO, OPUS Music CIC

Andrea Clegg, Associate Director for Nursing & AHP Development, noted the impact of our music, saying, “Not a dry eye in the building, absolutely committed to become a hospital known for its music and singing. Watch this space.”

Sarah Limb, Matron for Neonates, Children and Young People, echoed this sentiment: “Absolutely an essential part of SFHT Ward 25 and NICU as well as other paediatric services. What a moving video showing the impact you have, thank you.”

Our musicians were proud to present the depth of our work, sharing musical stories that highlighted the healing power of music.

“All of OPUS Music CIC’s musicians attended Sherwood Forest Hospitals Foundation Trust’s Celebrating Excellence event, where we were proud to present the depth of our work within the Trust, supported by our National Portfolio Organisation status thanks to Arts Council England funding. We shared live music as attendees arrived and during the lunch break, engaging them with performances and stories about our musical collaborations with patients, families, and staff. The event showcased our ongoing efforts to develop a “musical hospital,” where music plays a vital role in patient care and wellbeing.” – Sarah Matthews, OPUS Healthcare Musician

We are deeply grateful for this partnership and look forward to continuing our journey towards creating a truly musical hospital.

Music Making in Guernsey

Reflecting on a Week of Musician and Music Care Training in Guernsey

From 16-20 September, OPUS had the privilege of delivering a week-long training session in Guernsey, led by Nick. It was a packed, rewarding experience aimed at preparing local musicians to incorporate music into healthcare settings. Here’s a reflection on how the week unfolded.

Monday: Setting the Stage for Music Care

Our week kicked off at the School of Popular Music (SOPM), a well-regarded independent music school in Guernsey. The training group comprised three musicians, guitarists, ukulele and vocalists, all of whom are tutors at SOPM. The training was delivered at the invitation of the Head of Creative Health for the States of Guernsey, who plays a pivotal role in integrating arts into health and social care on the island.

The morning was spent getting to know one another, planning the week together, and preparing musical material for our first session in the hospital. In the afternoon we headed to the hospital for our Music Care Training session, involving a broader group of participants including hospital staff. It was an immersive introduction to the core themes of the training—connecting music and care, exploring holistic effects, and understanding the impact of sound and voice in healthcare environments.

By the end of the day, the musicians had begun integrating into the hospital; it provided a vital opportunity for the musicians to introduce themselves to some of the hospital staff who would support us during the week.

‘The course yesterday was AMAZING! I got so much out of it. If we could all put in even a tiny fragment into our working lives caring it would make a difference… I hope that this learning experience can be done again as I am sure, people like me would enjoy it.’
Music Care Trainee (Member of Healthcare Staff)

Tuesday: Delving Deeper into Ethics and Musicianship

Day two was a full day at SOPM. We began by reflecting on the key takeaways from the previous day and diving into deeper discussions around suitable music, authenticity, and adaptations, which we light-heartedly referred to as “ch-ch-ch-ch-changes,” inspired by David Bowie.

The afternoon shifted towards ethics in music care. We explored these complex topics with the help of videos and real-life examples, including insights from Sam Vandiver at the Gifts of Arts Bedside Music Programme in Michigan, who joined us via Teams. Sam had been instrumental in making the introduction between OPUS and Health and Social Care in Guernsey. These discussions were key to helping participants understand the importance of ethical considerations when delivering music in health settings, particularly when working with vulnerable populations.

Wednesday: Taking Music to the Wards

On Wednesday morning, we prepared musical material together, focusing on adaptability, before heading to the hospital in the afternoon. The goal for this session was to place music safely and appropriately into the hospital wards, focusing on creating a calming, musical presence.

One of the most profound moments came when we entered a ward that had previously been sceptical of how impactful music can be in healthcare. They quickly saw the gentle, person-centred approach and positive responses from patients, and staff became emotional witnessing the impact of the music. It was a powerful reminder of how music can quietly but profoundly change the atmosphere in healthcare settings.

Thursday: Deepening Engagement with Patients

Thursday was all about patient engagement. After starting the morning at SOPM with reflections and improvisation exercises, we returned to the hospital in the afternoon, focusing on engaging children, older adults, and people in long-term care, including those with dementia. The musicians worked in pairs, which allowed for more impactful interactions. Patients were invited to join in with instruments like the Hapi Drum and egg shakers, with some even singing along.

We also had a valuable debrief with the hospital’s visual artists, who take art packs around the wards on their Creativity Trolley. This interdisciplinary exchange helped both groups learn from each other, deepening our understanding of the different ways creative arts can enrich patient care.

Friday: A Powerful Conclusion

Friday started early at a Healthcare Innovations Conference, where the musicians performed and engaged attendees in music-making before the conference began. This was a great opportunity to further advocate for the power of music in healthcare, with images from OPUS and the week of training displayed on a large screen while we played.

‘I just wanted to say thank you for the music at the conference- everyone really enjoyed it- & great characters too’. Associate Director, Health and Social Care.

The morning was spent revisiting the hospital wards for one last round of practice. These final moments were filled with meaningful interactions between musicians, patients, and staff, demonstrating the transformative power of music. One standout moment came in a ward with a percussion-playing occupational therapist and a singing nurse, both of whom helped engage patients in making music. Staff across all wards expressed their appreciation and excitement for the musicians’ visits, asking when they would return—a clear indicator of the programme’s success.

Looking Forward

By Friday afternoon, it was clear that the week had been a success. It was expressed that out of all the Creative Health initiatives they had tried within the hospital, this was the most impactful and instantly effective. The musicians also reflected on how the week had transformed their practices, with many expressing how grateful they were to have taken part.

‘This training was truly a humbling and life changing experience, not only did it give me a fundamental understanding of music care but it also has changed my practice and outlook as a musician and teacher for the better.’
Trainee Healthcare Musician

The week in Guernsey highlighted the incredible potential of music in healthcare settings. It not only enriched the lives of patients but also inspired the musicians and staff involved. We’re excited to continue building on this momentum, with hopes of returning to Guernsey soon to continue supporting the development of this impactful programme.

The Health Benefits of Music

Scientific Evidence and Insights

Music has long been celebrated for its ability to evoke emotions, create connections, and inspire creativity. However, beyond its aesthetic appeal, music also offers numerous health benefits that are increasingly supported by scientific research. Whether you’re listening to your favourite tunes, playing an instrument, or singing along with friends, the health benefits of music are profound and wide-ranging. In this article, we explore the scientifically-backed health benefits of music, shedding light on why it should be an integral part of your daily routine.

Stress Reduction and Relaxation

One of the most well-documented health benefits of music is its ability to reduce stress. Listening to music, particularly slow tempo and classical genres, can lower cortisol levels, the hormone responsible for stress. A study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that participants who listened to relaxing music before undergoing a stressful task had significantly lower levels of cortisol compared to those who did not listen to music.

Music therapy, a clinical intervention where music is used to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs, has also been shown to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. This is particularly beneficial for individuals dealing with chronic stress or anxiety disorders. Incorporating calming music into your daily routine can thus be an effective strategy for stress management.

Enhanced Cognitive Function and Memory

Music has a powerful effect on the brain, enhancing cognitive function and memory. Research from the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease revealed that individuals with mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer’s who engaged in music therapy showed improvements in memory and cognitive skills.

Moreover, the “Mozart Effect,” a term popularised in the 1990s, suggests that listening to Mozart’s compositions may temporarily enhance spatial-temporal reasoning abilities. While the long-term impact of this effect is debated, there’s no denying that music can stimulate brain activity, particularly in areas associated with memory, attention, and executive function.

Improvement in Physical Health

The health benefits of music extend to physical health as well. Studies have shown that music can lower blood pressure, reduce heart rate, and even improve the body’s immune response. For instance, a study published in Psychosomatic Medicine found that participants who listened to music had improved heart rate variability, a key indicator of cardiovascular health.

In addition to cardiovascular benefits, music can also enhance physical performance. Listening to upbeat music during exercise has been shown to increase endurance, improve mood, and even reduce the perception of effort. This makes music a powerful tool for anyone looking to boost their physical health and performance.

Emotional Expression and Mental Health

Music is a universal language that allows individuals to express and process complex emotions. It plays a crucial role in emotional regulation and mental health. A study in The Arts in Psychotherapy found that music therapy could significantly reduce symptoms of depression and improve emotional well-being.

For those struggling with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, or PTSD, music therapy offers a non-invasive and effective treatment option. It provides a safe space for individuals to explore their emotions, reduce feelings of isolation, and enhance their overall mental health.

Social Connection and Community Building

Music has the unique ability to bring people together, fostering social connection and community. Group activities like singing in a choir, playing in a band, or simply sharing music with friends can create strong social bonds and improve feelings of belonging and connectedness.

Social isolation and loneliness are significant risk factors for various health issues, including depression and cardiovascular disease. Engaging in musical activities, therefore, not only provides emotional support but also contributes to better overall health by enhancing social connections.

Pain Management

Music can also serve as a powerful tool in pain management. According to a review in The Lancet, patients who listened to music before, during, or after surgery reported lower levels of pain and anxiety compared to those who did not listen to music. This effect is thought to be due to music’s ability to distract the mind, reduce stress, and release endorphins, which are natural pain relievers.

Better Sleep Quality

Struggling with insomnia or poor sleep quality? Music might be the solution. Research published in The Journal of Advanced Nursing found that listening to soothing music before bed can improve sleep quality, especially in older adults. Music helps to relax the body and mind, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.

Music promotes health and wellbeing

The health benefits of music are vast, ranging from stress reduction and cognitive enhancement to improved physical health and emotional well-being. With a growing body of scientific evidence supporting these benefits, it’s clear that music is not just an art form but also a powerful tool for promoting health and well-being. Whether you’re listening to your favourite songs, playing an instrument, or engaging in music, integrating music into your daily life can lead to significant improvements in your overall health.

If you are interested in learning more about what we do and the music care training we offer to healthcare professionals, musicians, families, carers, and organisations, then please get in touch contact@opusmusic.org

Music is a powerful tool that can enhance social connection, support pain management, improve sleep, and promote physical and mental health and wellbeing.

Celebrating our partnership with SFHT

Transforming Care Through Music: OPUS Music CIC Partners with Sherwood Forest Hospitals Trust

Celebrating our partnership with SFHT

At OPUS Music CIC, we believe in the profound impact of music on health and well-being. We are thrilled to announce our new two-year partnership with Sherwood Forest Hospitals Trust, aiming to integrate the healing power of music into the healthcare services at Sherwood Forest Hospitals. This collaboration seeks to create a “musical hospital,” enhancing the healthcare experience for patients, staff, and visitors through the therapeutic benefits of music.

Our Mission: Music as a Healing Tool

Music’s ability to soothe, uplift, and heal is well-documented. Through this partnership, we aim to make music an integral part of the healthcare routines at Sherwood Forest Hospitals, bringing its proven benefits to every moment of care.

Over the next year, we will focus on fostering a culture where music is seamlessly woven into the fabric of healthcare. Our approach will be driven by three core strategies:

1. Healthcare Musicians on the Wards: Our professional musicians will regularly visit the wards and make music with patients and families. These interactions offer the chance to engage, communicate, release stress and emotion, and find the joy in music making, offering an escape from current medical challenges and impending operations.

2. Training and Support for Staff: We will provide comprehensive training to hospital staff, equipping them with the skills and knowledge to incorporate music into their daily routines. This training will enable staff to use music as a tool for improved health and wellbeing, relaxation, patient engagement, and emotional support.

3. Capturing and Sharing the Impact: We will meticulously document the effects of our initiative, gathering feedback and data to measure its impact. This will help us refine our methods and share our insights with the wider healthcare community.

A Promising Start: First Training Session

On Friday, 14th June, we held our inaugural training session with the staff at Sherwood Forest Hospital. The session was a resounding success, filled with enthusiasm and a shared commitment to enhancing patient care through music. Our team of passionate and experienced musicians guided the hospital staff in exploring the transformative power of music.

One participant remarked, “Very worthwhile. The trainers were clearly all very passionate, interesting, excellent at delivering/sharing the importance of music and its impact it can have. Fantastic course, thought-provoking, very informative.”

Another healthcare professional added, “It is definitely a worthwhile study day and it’s something that you can find to apply to practice at some points during the working day! Well done OPUS!!”

Genny Cotroneo, OPUS Training and Learning Manager reflected on the session, “The engagement from the trainees was fantastic. We had staff from four different wards, all with very different patient needs and different priorities, but everyone found something that they could take back to the ward with them. From asking family members about favourite music artists for dementia patents; to having 10min music sessions on the children’s ward two or three times a week; to introducing background music during doctor ward rounds on the infant intensive care unit, the ideas of how music can be incorporated into daily routines were flowing. With the follow up support of the OPUS trainers, we’ll make these ideas come to life together. That’s the exciting part!”

Looking Forward

This partnership represents a significant step towards an increasingly holistic approach to healthcare. We are excited to see the positive changes that will come from integrating music into the daily routines at Sherwood Forest Hospitals. By bringing the healing power of music to the forefront of patient care, we aim to improve the emotional and physical well-being of everyone in the hospital.

Jo Thornley, SFHT Community Involvement Manager explained, “On behalf of the Sherwood Forest Hospitals Charity, I applied to NHS Charities Together for post Covid recovery grant. I was delighted to learn that I had been successful in securing funding to extend OPUS visits for a further 2 years. In addition, this funding would enable us to offer staff training to provide colleagues with the skills and confidence to include music as part of their daily patient activities. Feedback indicated that following OPUS visits, there has been a marked improvement in the health and wellbeing of our patients and carers but also in staff morale. I am excited to build on our partnership over the coming years and continually look at opportunities to make music a key part of our hospitals.”

Nick Cutts, CEO added, “It’s a delight to work alongside the varied teams of healthcare professionals at Sherwood Forest Hospitals Trust, who together share our vision for a musical hospital. By exploring and learning together, we are able to develop multiple new approaches to integrating music into care. We look forward to sharing this programme as beacon of excellence for others to follow.”

We are eager to share the progress of this initiative with you and look forward to the continued collaboration with Sherwood Forest Hospitals Trust. Stay tuned for updates as we work together to create a musical hospital.

With Sherwood Forest Hospitals Trust, we are making strides towards a future where music is a vital part of healthcare, transforming the healing process one note at a time.

Oaklie’s Story

Oaklie's Story

From Tiny Acorns, Mighty Oaks Grow

Bringing a new life into the world is an experience filled with anticipation, joy, and sometimes, unforeseen challenges. For Vickie and her family, the arrival of their baby girl, Oaklie, at just 27 weeks meant a lengthy and intense stay in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). During this critical period, one unexpected source of comfort and joy came from OPUS Music CIC, dedicated to bringing live music to healthcare settings. Their involvement transformed the hospital experience for Oaklie and her family, offering solace and strength through the healing power of music.

Oaklie was a tiny acorn, fragile and full of potential. Her name, inspired by the saying “from tiny acorns, mighty oaks grow,” encapsulated her parents’ hope and belief in her strength and resilience.

“Our baby girl, Oaklie, was born at 27+3 weeks, meaning we spent 7 weeks in the NICU before finally going home. The first week we were there, we experienced the musicians from OPUS play for the first time. The acoustic music was beautiful and made me very emotional; they played Twinkle Twinkle initially, followed by 3 Little Birds by Bob Marley.”

– Vickie (Oaklie’s Mum)

In the sterile, beeping environment of the NICU, where the constant hum of machines and the buzz of medical staff became the norm, OPUS Music CIC provided a breath of fresh air. Their mission simple yet profound: to bring the therapeutic benefits of live music to patients, families, and staff in healthcare settings.

Each week, the musicians from OPUS would visit the NICU, offering a musical respite for families like Oaklie’s.

“Each week they would play a nursery rhyme followed by a modern classic. When your baby is in NICU, it is a very testing time, and the days merge. Although OPUS’s visits were short, it broke the week up and I really looked forward to it, to hear something other than the machine beeps and subtle buzz of the staff.”

For Vickie, these musical interludes were more than just a break from the monotony; they were moments of emotional connection and hope.

“Oaklie was actually awake for one of their visits; I could see her take notice of this new sound, and it was incredible to watch her take this in.”

Watching her tiny daughter respond to the music was a powerful reminder of the life and potential within her.

The impact of OPUS’s visits extended beyond just the auditory experience. Music has a unique ability to reach places words cannot, providing comfort, emotional expression, and a sense of normalcy in an otherwise clinical environment. For families in the NICU, this connection can be profoundly healing.

As Oaklie grew stronger and the day of going home approached, Vickie and her family carried with them the memories of those musical moments.

“Thank you, OPUS, for bringing a little bit of joy to a stressful time.”

Oaklie’s story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of music. From a tiny acorn to a mighty oak, Oaklie continues to grow, thrive, and inspire all who hear her story. The music provided by OPUS Music was not just a temporary distraction but a source of lasting strength and joy during a challenging journey.

In the NICU, where each day can feel like an eternity, and the uncertainty of the future looms large, the presence of OPUS Music brought a much-needed touch of humanity and hope. For Oaklie and her family, these musical visits were a beacon of light, reminding them that even in the most trying times, there is beauty, connection, and the promise of growth. From tiny acorns, mighty oaks grow—just like Oaklie, who continues to flourish.

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OPUS at Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace Garden Party for the Creative Industries

On May 15th, we had the immense honour of attending the Sovereign’s Creative Industries Garden Party at Buckingham Palace. It was a day filled with recognition, celebration, and a sense of pride for our work. As an Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation, we’ve been leading the charge for the use of music in healthcare across the East Midlands and beyond. This event, hosted by King Charles III and Queen Camilla, highlighted the incredible contributions of the UK’s creative industries, with around 4,000 representatives from various sectors in attendance.

Among the attendees were notable figures like Louis Theroux, Tracey Emin, Ridley Scott, and Edward Enninful. The event was a vibrant tapestry of the UK’s cultural scene, celebrating those who enrich our cultural heritage.

Reflecting on the day, our CEO, Nick Cutts, shared his excitement: “Molly and I are thrilled to be representing OPUS at today’s Garden Party, celebrating the UK’s world-leading creative and cultural sectors. It is wonderful to have the value of our work recognized in this way. We are proudly attending, representing OPUS and our brilliant colleagues who continue working tirelessly to make our work so successful and impactful. We also carry thoughts of our amazing partners across the health and social care sectors who always give so much of themselves to support music-making. We shall raise a very fancy cake to you all!”

Nick’s words resonated with the importance of the occasion. He continued, “What a great occasion to celebrate the wonderful and rich array of creative and cultural talent we have in the United Kingdom. It was wonderful to see the recognition for individuals and organisations who bring health, happiness, and prosperity to every corner of the UK. I take from this event a renewed energy to drive forward our mission of championing music within health and social care, alongside a real pride for what we can achieve when we work hand-in-hand with our partners in healthcare. It was notable how much of a role music has played in the occasion today, providing a backdrop of comfort and celebration. It reminds me that music plays such an important part in most of our lives, and should continue to do so in sickness and in health.”

Molly Davies, our Marketing and Communications Manager, echoed this sentiment, expressing her gratitude for the invitation: “It was an honour to be invited to such a prestigious event. It was a beautifully sunny day to celebrate the creative industries, and wonderful that so many creatives had been invited. The royal band were a personal highlight providing a continual soundtrack to the day. Music is such a big part of what we do and it felt very poignant that the band played such an important role in today’s celebrations bringing joy and feeling to the festivities. We enjoyed the tea and cake, strolling through the beautifully kept Palace gardens, and chatting to HRH Camilla, the Queen of arts.”

The day at Buckingham Palace reaffirmed our dedication to using music as a powerful tool for enhancing well-being and quality of life. At OPUS Music, we’re committed to bringing the joy and healing power of music to healthcare settings across the East Midlands and beyond, offering community music for well-being sessions and training programmes for healthcare professionals, musicians, and carers.

Not your average Wednesday!

Finding the right Rhythm

Finding The Right Rhythm

How does drumming support your health and wellbeing?

We asked Rich to shed some light on the Bodhrán and what drumming means to him.

Being a musician with a specialism in healthcare and whose main instrumental focus is drums and percussion might seem like a tricky thing to reconcile; The sensitive nature of hospital spaces and the perception of percussion as loud and energetic might seem at odds, but many elements of percussive music when delivered with sensitivity and intention, can be just what’s needed in healthcare spaces.

Percussion based music can be calming and restful as well as being enlivening and celebratory. The lack of melody and harmony in drums can side step the potential pitfalls of engaging patients with music that might be associated with difficult emotions. The presence of rhythm in a space can be very grounding, lead to changes in mental and physical states and help with connection.

The drum I choose to play in hospital is the Bodhrán. It’s a frame drum associated with traditional Irish music but increasingly played in a greater variety of settings.

A lovely aspect of the bodhrán is the variety of tones that can be got from the drum meaning that a huge range of traditional and contemporary rhythms can be played on the drum. It can be played across a range of volumes with a tipper (single stick) or played really sensitively and very quietly, finger style like a traditional middle eastern frame drum.

I play a drum made by a German maker called Christian Hedwitschak. The drum is very responsive and the sounds range from warm and deep tones to high pitched accents that are really well balanced in combination. Although the drum wasn’t especially crafted for me it has always been my instrument of choice for hospital as it has such a lovely range of warm tones.

I’ve played drums and percussion for 32 years now and my main instrument over that time has been the conga drums or ‘tumbadoras’ as played in Cuba. The bodhrán is a much smaller, quieter and more portable drum than the congas but rhythmically equally as versatile. I often find myself translating rhythms from the congas on to the bodhrán. Both drums have a wide range of tones that can be played in combination.

For me playing and improvising around a repetitive rhythmic structure is really soothing and pleasurable. It takes me out of myself and puts my mind in a much calmer and more coherent state. Drumming also seems to connect with people in a way that I’ve not experienced with other instruments.

It is my absolute belief in the power of rhythm to change and transform us that has motivated me to develop myself as a healthcare musician and to want to share the experience of what rhythm can do for us with others.

Rich Kensington, OPUS Healthcare Musician

OPUS Community Music Sessions

Transforming lives through music

OPUS Expands Wellbeing Groups with Arts Council England Funding

Thanks to the generous support from Arts Council England and the National Lottery Community Fund, OPUS has been able to extend its reach, creating three music for wellbeing groups in Bolsover, Ashfield, and Nottingham. These sessions provide a supportive space for participants to delve into the therapeutic benefits of music, specifically designed to cater to those with acquired brain injury, children experiencing anxiety, and families coping with dementia.

These community-based projects originated from the growing demand within healthcare and local communities. With the current spotlight on social prescribing and activities for wellbeing at the forefront, OPUS recognised the need to carve out a space for group music making sessions. OPUS wanted to empower local music makers to lead these sessions, to share their expertise in their communities, with the additional benefit of reducing the OPUS Carbon footprint. Six local musicians were invited to lead the groups, and OPUS proudly supported them in honing their skills and gaining practical experience.

Chris Doyle, a community musician, noted the unique atmosphere created in the sessions “The community music sessions give space for the participants to relax, socialise, and engage at a nearly unconscious level with sounds, songs, and beats.”

Diane, another music-maker, highlighted the success observed among young participants “It is satisfying to see the young people enjoy the sessions – their excitement, enthusiasm, and engagement is a great success week-to-week.”

The impact on community musicians has been profound, leading to improved self-esteem and some now considering a career in music in healthcare.

Over the past fifteen weeks, participants consistently expressed their enjoyment, with some describing the experience as transformative. A Social Prescribing Link Worker shared positive feedback from patients who felt the music session brought a sense of vitality.

“I just wanted to feed back that two of my patients attended the session and said it was excellent! They thoroughly enjoyed it and the carer of the gentleman I am supporting mentioned that he ‘came alive’ with the music, which she found wonderful to see.”

Participants praised the relaxed atmosphere, and older music makers found solace reminiscing about old times.

Inspired by these positive outcomes, OPUS is eager to expand its impact. Plans include increasing participant numbers, collaborating with various sectors to ensure sustainability, and utilising the expertise of the community and network of healthcare musicians.

Financial support from Derbyshire MIND charity further enables the development of a community music-making group in Bolsover. Sessions, starting in April, will focus on music-making for wellbeing, promoting social interaction to benefit mental health and support diverse needs such as loneliness and dementia.

For more information, please get in touch contact@opusmusic.org

OPUS Music and the Impact on Parent Mental Health

Parent Mental Health Day

OPUS Music and the Impact on Parent Mental Health

Parenting is a rewarding yet challenging journey, and the demands of caring for a child can be particularly daunting for those navigating the complexities of hospital stays, illness, and mental health challenges. This Parent Mental Health Day, we feel it is important to highlight the transformative impact of music, on parents in hospital settings and in the community.

In the words of a grateful parent whose child participated in one of the OPUS community music sessions:

“I just wanted to say an enormous thank you to the fantastic team at OPUS for the care and support you gave P in the autumn music sessions. She loved it and was always so happy about returning. It had been a very difficult year for us, but we really feel we’ve got her back. We can’t thank you enough. What a fantastic group of people P was lucky enough to be a part of.”

A nurse, witnessing the direct impact of music in hospital environments, attests to its positive effects:

“It contributes to positive developmental care for infants and provides wonderful moments for bonding between infants and families. Thank you so much for providing this service. As a nurse, I can see the positive impact this is having for patients and their families.”

The stress of a hospital stay can be overwhelming for parents, but OPUS music sessions shine a bright light even in the darkest times. A relieved parent shares their experience:

“Their session made an otherwise stressful hospital stay much brighter. As a parent, at a time when you’re feeling exhausted and worried, they really do make things feel better. To see my daughter join in and enjoy the music and singing was so refreshing after seeing so much upset from being unwell. They take pressure off parents to entertain, relieve staff, patients and parents, and they genuinely make the ward a lovely place to be when they’re there.”

This Parent Mental Health Day, we celebrate the impact of OPUS music on parents, both in hospital and in the community. These quotes illustrate the tangible difference music can make in the lives of families facing challenges. OPUS creates space for musical expression for communities, parents, and children, to support their mental health and wellbeing.

Music Making in Bolsover

Blog, Music and Health

Music Making in Bolsover

October 30, 2023

In the serene surroundings of Hillstown Village Hall in Bolsover, something truly special is happening every Friday afternoon. Thanks to funding from Arts Council England, a community music group led by OPUS Music has emerged as a source of inspiration and support for individuals living with Dementia, as well as their dedicated caregivers. Through music making, participants come together to create a nurturing and joyful environment.

What is Dementia?

Dementia is an umbrella term for loss of memory and other thinking abilities severe enough to interfere with daily life. Types of Dementia include: Alzheimer’s, Vascular, Lewy body, Frontotemporal, Huntington’s, and more.

Sarah’s Perspective

Sarah Matthews, one of our OPUS Musicians, involved in facilitating these sessions, captures the essence of the group beautifully. She describes it as a “wonderful group of local people caring and supporting one another through music-making and laughter.” The sessions are not just about music; they are about human connections and shared experiences. Participants engage in conversations about everyday topics, including the weather, transportation, and reciting poetry. They explore a diverse range of musical elements, from historical industrial songs to Scottish love songs and even the creation of beautiful soundscapes using various instruments. This diverse and engaging atmosphere is a testament to the power of music to bring people together and create lasting memories.

Chris’ Experience

Chris Doyle, one of the local community musicians leading the group, shares his experience. He describes the participants as a “pleasant, relaxed, interesting, and joyful group of people.” This atmosphere of positivity and relaxation sets the stage for engaging and spontaneous music sessions.

Chris finds inspiration from the participants’ life stories and memories. The sessions highlight the importance of being passionate about what you do and inspiring others. Through this musical journey, Chris has gained confidence in his own musicianship and enhanced adaptability. More than anything, he emphasises the sheer enjoyment of creating music in an uninhibited and inclusive environment. His initial expectations of participants not being very engaged were pleasantly disproved, as people embraced the opportunity to be open and try something new. The group provided a space for relaxation, socialisation, and engagement with sounds, songs, and beats.

Notably, the group has proven to be inclusive and accommodating, allowing those with decreased coordination and dexterity to participate and potentially stimulate improvements in these areas. It provides a platform for individuals to simply be present in the moment, fostering relaxation and sociability. The creativity within the group naturally evokes memories and stories, touching participants and their caregivers alike.

Harvey’s thoughts

Harvey Holmshaw, another of the Bolsover-based community musicians leading the group, reflects on his positive experience with the group. He highlights how the sessions have enhanced his understanding of social care and boosted his musical confidence. The group’s benefits are all-encompassing, moving not only the participants but also the individuals leading the sessions. Harvey points out how the music deeply affects the group, often rekindling deep-rooted memories that might have been temporarily forgotten.

One of the remarkable aspects of the sessions is the power of conversation. “It positively affects the whole group, participants personalities come out… the simplicity of making and enjoying music, while sharing and stimulating memories as well as being sociable”. The group members engage in discussions, and the music created during the sessions often resonates with the thoughts and feelings shared by participants. This approach amplifies the effectiveness of the sessions and reinforces the sense of community and connection.

These music making sessions in Bolsover allow those with Dementia and their caregivers the freedom to experience music in a way they chose, offering autonomy and creative expression. It can become a source of solace, engagement, and inspiration for participants and their caregivers. Through the magic of music, memories are rekindled, and connections are formed, offering a ray of light in the lives of those facing the challenges of Dementia.

These sessions run every Friday at Hillstown Village Hall in Bolsover from 1pm – 3pm. Please get in touch if you are interested in taking part ben@opusmusic.org

On 16th October 2024, we at OPUS Music CIC were thrilled to be part of Sherwood Forest Hospitals Foundation Trust's Celebrating Excellence Day. It was a wonderful opportunity to share our work on building a "musical hospital," bringing music into the heart of patient care. Our musicians performed live throughout the day, creating moments of connection and joy for staff and patients alike.

Celebrating Excellence with SFHFT

19 October, 2024

OPUS Music Nick in Guernsey with a room full of people

Music Making in Guernsey

11 October, 2024

OPUS Music’s Compassionate Contribution to End-of-Life Care

This October the 14th the world comes together to observe World Palliative Care and Hospice Day, and we shine a spotlight on the transformative role of music in providing solace and comfort during the most delicate moments of life.

At OPUS our ethos is to make music with all to promote positive health and wellbeing. These music-making sessions explore connection, remove communication boundaries, and promote the health benefits that music brings. Supporting not only the patient, but the family, and healthcare staff that surround them at these significant times. Music offers the space for emotional release, to soothe, and to support connection, which is vital in these last moments.

“I want to thank you OPUS for yesterday. You played beautiful songs, and my Mum sang, smiled, and loved it. Mum passed away early this morning. We are devastated, but remembering the smile on her face whilst watching you will stay with me always!” – Daughter of a patient

As well as working in hospitals across the East Midlands, we also make music in community settings, in hospices, and care homes, bringing music to individuals. The feedback we have received from family testimonials highlights the significance of music in end-of-life care.

We believe that compassion in action within the realm of end-of-life care is vital, and we understand the important role that music can play in these final moments. Our healthcare musicians enter patient rooms with sensitivity and grace, crafting musical moments that transcend the ordinary. Our aim is to facilitate solace and connection to patients and their families during a challenging time.

“Thank you for playing to my mum while she was a patient. You came into her room and played beautifully, such a magical moment we will never forget, thank you.” – Son of a patient

In the hushed corridors of hospices and hospitals worldwide, where the journey of life meets its final notes, music resounds as a healer and the bridge to connection, creates lasting final memories. As we celebrate World Palliative Care and Hospice Day, we join the conversation and champion the transformative power of music in end-of-life care. Our impact extends beyond hospices and hospitals; it reaches into the hearts of patients and their families, creating lasting memories.

The profound impact of music emerges as a universal language that transcends words, easing pain, offering solace and leaving an enduring legacy of compassion and connection.

Find out more about what we've been up to...

OPUS’ Response to the Climate Emergency

14 February, 2025

OPUS’ Response to the Climate Emergency Continuing Our Journey In 2022, we shared

Chris’ Story

29 November, 2024

Music has the power to heal, comfort, and uplift, even in the most

OPUS Music Training at Mansfield Community Hospital

24 October, 2024

OPUS Music recently delivered an invigorating and deeply engaging music training session at

Celebrating Excellence with SFHFT

19 October, 2024

On 16th October 2024, we at OPUS Music CIC were thrilled to be

Music Making in Guernsey

11 October, 2024

From 16-20 September, OPUS had the privilege of delivering a week-long training session

Play in Hospital Week

Celebrating Play in Hospital Week 2023: Nurturing Creativity and Innovation in Play

As October rolls around, we at OPUS Music CIC are thrilled to join hands with hospitals, play teams, and compassionate individuals across the East Midlands and beyond in celebrating Play in Hospital Week. This annual event, taking place from the 9th to the 15th of October, is more than just a reminder—it’s a celebration of the healing power of play.

“Play is the highest expression of human development in childhood for it alone is the free expression of what is in a child’s soul. It gives joy, freedom, contentment, inner and outer rest and peace with the world” – Friedrich Frobel

This year’s theme, ‘Creativity and Innovation in Play,’ is a testament to the resilience of both healthcare providers and children facing daunting challenges. At times, hospitals can be intimidating and overwhelming, and for children the experience and these feelings can be magnified by their vulnerability and a lack of control over their surroundings.

The significance of play in a hospital setting cannot be overstated. Play serves as a powerful escape. It has the remarkable ability to lift a child’s spirits, improve their mental health, and even help babies reach crucial developmental milestones.

Despite its proven benefits, play in hospitals remains a challenge for many institutions across the UK. Children benefit from the therapeutic effects of play, but due to constraints and resource limitations, not all are able to access it.

This week we are joining the conversation and celebrating the importance of supporting children in hospitals through play and praise the remarkable efforts of the dedicated play teams in hospitals across the East Midlands that we are lucky to work alongside.

Together, we can make sure every child’s hospital journey is filled with creativity, innovation, and the joy of play.

"We don't stop playing because we grow old... we grow old because we stop playing"

George Bernard Shaw

Find out more about what we've been up to...

OPUS’ Response to the Climate Emergency

14 February, 2025

OPUS’ Response to the Climate Emergency Continuing Our Journey In 2022, we shared

Chris’ Story

29 November, 2024

Music has the power to heal, comfort, and uplift, even in the most

OPUS Music Training at Mansfield Community Hospital

24 October, 2024

OPUS Music recently delivered an invigorating and deeply engaging music training session at

Celebrating Excellence with SFHFT

19 October, 2024

On 16th October 2024, we at OPUS Music CIC were thrilled to be

Music Making in Guernsey

11 October, 2024

From 16-20 September, OPUS had the privilege of delivering a week-long training session

The Healing Power Of Music

Transforming Lives During Alzheimer’s Awareness Week

It’s World Alzheimer’s Day and we are joining the conversation sharing stories of resilience, connection, and wellbeing.

Stories of people like Jean, an older lady living with vascular dementia, who found solace in the soothing power of music.

The Impact of Music: Transforming Care Environments

Jean's Story: A Remarkable Encounter with Music

Jean’s story is a testament to the incredible impact that music can have on individuals living with dementia. She would often call out in distress, searching for a connection with her loved ones. However, her story took a heartwarming turn when Mary (our Associate Musician) sat down beside her and offered the gift of music-making.

As Mary played, Jean’s cries of distress gradually softened. The calling out became less agitated, and moments of serenity emerged. What made this experience truly remarkable was the power of a shared voice. When Jean cried out, “God help me!” Mary transitioned the piece into the soothing melody of “Amazing Grace.” As Mary played, Jean began to join in. Singing the last line with clarity, bringing a smile to her face.

Mary played other hymns which provided a welcome distraction as the nurses administered Jean’s medication. A close friend of Jean’s visited, and joined in as they all sang “Amazing Grace” together. Jean mouthed the words along with them, relishing the moment of connection and joy.

The story of Jean is just one example of the profound impact of music on individuals living with Alzheimer’s and dementia. As caregivers and healthcare professionals have observed, music can bring remarkable changes to care environments.

Music offers the space for connection, it can create a communication without words, reaching neural pathways that fire subconsciously and can ignite memories once forgot.

"A long-standing patient has got great comfort from the music and singing. The patient who has dementia usually gives no eye contact and will just shout out and screw up her face. Today this patient has her eyes open, the most beautiful smile and is humming along to the music. We need more of this on the wards. Today our ward is so calm due to the music. Seeing the positive response by patients has brought a tear to my eye."

Nurse

University Hospital

Take Me As You Find Me: A Song by OPUS Music

In our quest to raise awareness on World Alzheimer’s Day, we wanted to share our song “Take Me As You Find Me.” You can listen to it here. This song portrays the experiences and emotions of the response to our practice within dementia care. It reminds us of the importance of empathy and understanding.

"It really changes the atmosphere; while they're playing you don't hear all the coughing and beeping; it makes the patients more comfortable. We deal with lots of patients with dementia, and you often see them dancing to the music and playing along. You can learn a lot about a patient's history and find out more about them. It's so important when it comes to individualising care. How can you care for a patient holistically if you don't really know them?"

Nurse

University Hospital

OPUS Music's Commitment to Dementia Care

In addition to our musical contributions in health and care settings, here at OPUS Music we are making a meaningful impact in the community. Thanks to Arts Council Funding, we are running a series of workshops in Bolsover for families living with dementia. Our new team of community musicians are bringing music to families and facilitating music-making sessions that support their health and wellbeing. This initiative exemplifies the positive change that can be achieved through the healing power of music.

As we commemorate World Alzheimer’s Day, let us be inspired by stories like Jean’s, where the simple act of sharing music can bring comfort, connection, and joy to those living with dementia. Music is a powerful tool for transforming care environments and enhancing the quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer’s. Join us as we continue to explore the healing power of music and work towards a more inclusive and compassionate world for all those affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia.

For more information on Alzheimer’s and the broader initiatives to support individuals with dementia, you can refer to the following resources:

https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-involved/world-alzheimers-day

https://www.alz.org/help-support/resources

https://www.alzheimers.gov/life-with-dementia/resources-caregivers

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers-dementia-resources-for-professionals

Together, we can make a difference and create a more supportive and understanding society for those living with Alzheimer's and dementia.

Creativity and Wellbeing Week 2023

Creativity and Wellbeing Week

The 15th to the 21st of May 2023 hosts Creativity and Wellbeing week, and Mental Health Awareness week. We are joining the conversation on mental health and sharing ways in which we support our own mental wellbeing.

For many of us creativity can be a way to express our feelings and boost our mood. This may be through music making, singing, dancing, painting, and a host of other practices. Sometimes it can be the creativity in the world around us that inspires us and offers a space for calm reflection. This week we’re asking, ‘What do you do to support your mental health?’

How are you mindful of your mental health?

Nick

I’m lucky that I live in a place that is surrounded by countryside. From trails cutting through the countryside, often relics of now disused railway lines, to parklands, once open-cast industrial sites now abundant with developing flora and fauna. I’m also lucky that our family includes a walk and water-loving Labrador who gives us the ‘excuse’ to explore these places frequently.

I often find snippets of songs and melodies in my head as I walk. Sometimes I think set off by the rhythmic motion of walking, but often inspired by the surroundings. As those who know me well, I love to make up a lyric about the situation at the drop of a hat, something very useful in our Healthcare Musician practice. The melodies that come into my head usually stay in there for a while, inspired knowingly or sub-consciously by something seen or heard. They are often forgotten by the end of the walk as the next thing becomes more ‘important’, and that’s OK with me. It’s not about any kind of artistic end-result, but the impact of the journey (or the walk in this case). These moments of calm and creative solitude are really important, and often leave me ready to tackle the next challenge, to complete that piece of work that’s been weighing heavily on my mind, or to continue in the creative vein with some music-making. I think our work often creates a space for people to escape into that moment of creative ‘calmness’, so important for our health and wellbeing.

Take One Day

This video, created for our Take One A Day programme towards the end of 2020 was an attempt at capturing the results of this creative inspiration during a walk, before it was lost. It was inspired by a White Egret who’s rock I borrowed to sit and play out the tune that followed.

Molly

Similarly to Nick, I find music can transport me, and help get my feelings out. I often find myself creatively inspired when I am frustrated, sad, or something eventful has happened. Creating music helps me to work through these emotions and events and make sense of them. I also love putting on my favourite songs in the car, or when I am at home and sing and dance (not in the car!) to boost my mood, and get all that energy out.

Last week I was delighted to receive a video from a patient showing Nick and Rich singing to a newborn. That sharing of music not only supported that family in that moment, but came to me at a time when I really needed it, and totally changed my day. The effect music has on us is amazing. To me, the sharing of music is such a generous and special experience. Although we talk everyday, we forget we can use our voices to sing, and express words with more meaning.

As a sociable person, I love spending time with my friends and family and find that talking through things that are on your mind always helps. Even if it is something very trivial, if you are a happy listening ear, others will often reciprocate. It can be useful to go for a walk and have a chat with a friend. By walking you are mirroring the conversation moving forward, working things out step by step, and hopefully coming to a conclusion by the end. I always try to check in on my friends and family and drop them a text or call to see how they are doing and remind them that someone is thinking about them. Sometimes it is just the acknowledgement that you are there that can help someone when they feel isolated.

Take a Breath

I created this video to help us all take a minute, breathe and be mindful of ourselves and our surroundings in this moment.

Mindfulness is a mental state achieved by focusing one’s awareness in the present moment, while calmly acknowledging and accepting one’s feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations. It is often used as a therapeutic technique, and helps calm and reduce stress.

Watch the video and find out more about Mindfulness and the ‘STOP’ technique.

Oli

Our mental health today feels more important than ever before to look after, care and nurture it regularly, similar to our practical health considerations. For many of us, the pandemic really challenged our mental health and the stability of wellbeing, with everyone of us navigating a different route through the lockdowns. Whether it be connecting over Zoom or Teams or simply meeting up with our chosen 1 person in which to chat and refresh that sense of belonging.

For me, as a Healthcare Musician, I really lost that sense of playing for and with patients in real time and in person. However I felt very lucky, being a musician, having the ability to channel my loss of interacting with others into a more creative output of writing pieces of music with different intentions, to share online and hopefully aid someone else’s wellbeing that day. This in turn supported my own wellbeing and mental health too, giving me a sense of purpose again.

I think sometimes it is easy to forget the power music can have on peoples lives everywhere, regardless of whether they are a musician or not. Music can act as a wonderful blanket of comfort in that time of need, whether it be a particular song with powerful lyrics that speaks to you or a particular ear worm tune that you just can’t help but hum or sing. So if there is a particular pressing thought that is pressing on your mind, its always worth turning to your musical blanket to seek some comfort in your own wellbeing and mental health.

Sarah

This musical video was created as part of our work at Hopewood CAMHS unit in Nottingham in Dec 2022, creating online resources for young people to listen to, engage with and perhaps play along to.

I decided to put together a very simple chill-out piece using the instruments (Ukulele, HAPI drum, Xylophone, and Tar Drum) that we usually use in our practice in hospital settings, and also wanted to include soft vocal textures.

The visuals were collected throughout lockdown, as I, like so many, found new things and places to focus my time on, and found great comfort in the natural landscape around me. Most of them are of outdoor scenes on walks around Derbyshire – some a little further afield when we were allowed to.

I hope the end result is a trance-like piece of music with accompanying scenes that will draw you in. Watch and listen out for the stars of the show – the grouse and the robin! Both the relaxing feel of the music and the chilled pace of nature in the videos is designed to soothe the soul and give you time out for about 6 minutes. I really hope you enjoy it…

Ben

For me, maintaining positive mental health and wellbeing means knowing when to pause, redirect or stop. Being able to spot the signs of overwhelm, anxiety or stress within yourself and then having something purposeful to do until the feelings pass is essential. I enjoy going for a walk at those times – what works for you?

Where can I find out more?

https://mentalhealth-uk.org

https://www.mind.org.uk/

https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/get-help

https://www.derbyshirehealthcareft.nhs.uk/services/helpline-and-support-service

https://www.helpmusicians.org.uk/get-support/mental-health

Comfort and Connection through Quiet Confidence

Towards the end of February, we were working our way through the hospital and we came to the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit.

"OPUS music are fantastic! As staff, we are so relieved when we see them walk through the unit doors. Today they came to the unit, we had a delirious patient that was hearing sound. They asked if now was a good time and we welcomed them greatly. OPUS music started playing and immediately the patient settled and relaxed back into their bed. They continued to play and calmed the patient so much that they fell into a deep and comfortable sleep ... They are so welcome and needed. They bring calm and positivity with them and help to make our jobs easier. They always manage to make the patients and family experience happier and nicer."

Healthcare Staff

Rich Kensington and I were suddenly called on by staff attending a young patient who was experiencing delirium and demonstrating distress at various sounds in the room. The situation appeared quite urgent. The staff stated that medical and nursing interventions were not working and they felt sure we should try some music. There was a sense of immediacy in the request and the staff seemed confident that music would be an effective alternative. We considered what to play / sing and how to deliver the piece.

We began purposefully and quite upbeat, with intensity to match the young person’s tempo and distress. After a few lines of the song, the young person connected with the music and a few changes were observed. Their own vocal noises lessened, movements became smaller, and they paused every now and again to listen. Rich moved the piece to a slower and more gentle tempo, but still with a strong vocal connection. Through this time we noted our own heartbeats racing, as a result of the intensity of the situation, and we realised we needed to bring our own internal energy levels down to assist the young patient.

We brought the pace right down singing a well-known lullaby song and keeping the vocal tone strong, open and connected. We reflected afterwards that this strength and consistency of voice may provide a focus for someone struggling through their own delirium to hang on to for a comfort and a way out.

Through the development of our practice over the years, we have constantly reflected upon the importance of being able to deliver strong, confident, quiet playing in hospital settings – to be able to match the volume of the environment suitably, but to sound positive in doing so. This situation reaffirmed that learning and caused us to really consider the impact of warm and present vocal tones and open-hearted singing in such a sensitive healthcare environment.

Eventually the young person relaxed so far, that their parent could allow their previous restraint to become a soothing embrace, and they finally fell into a deep sleep. We moved a little further away from this person’s bed area and playing our last gentle piece for the whole room to relax and gain a calmer inner state again.

This proved a powerful experience for the musicians too and one which has stayed with us both.

"This service is absolutely invaluable. Today they arrived and immediately calmed an incredibly delirious patient. It was exactly what was needed ... it is invaluable to provide holistic patient care. Thank you again for today your timing was absolutely perfect. Medical and nursing interventions were not helping, but this provided an immediate effect."

Healthcare Staff

National Portfolio Organisation

OPUS Music becomes National Portfolio Organisation

OPUS Music CIC is delighted to become part of Arts Council England’s National Portfolio from 1 April 2023

OPUS Music has been awarded £145,000 per year over the next three years by Arts Council England. This new investment reflects the significant role that OPUS plays locally, regionally, and nationally in the delivery, training, and advocacy for the use of music within health and social care.

The funding will support the development of three new communities of practice based within the Ashfield, Bolsover, and Nottingham regions with a specific focus upon supporting people experiencing mental health challenges.

It will allow OPUS to reach a wide range of musicians and participants, building an increasingly diverse and inclusive approach to the use of music within health and social care.

“We are delighted and hugely grateful to have been chosen as one of Arts Council England’s new National Portfolio organisations over the next 3 years This investment comes at a time when we are increasingly recognising the power that music can have on our lives, especially when we are experiencing health challenges. We are looking forward to working even more closely with these three communities, developing more, and increasingly relevant opportunities for people of all ages to both lead and to engage in music and music-making. We are excited to be working with them to create opportunities to explore how music can play an important part of the health and wellbeing of themselves and of their communities.”

Nick Cutts

CEO

A picture of a music making session with guitars xylophones

Healthcare Musicians Richard Kensington and Oli Matthews

Healthcare Musician Nick Cutts making music with patients and healthcare staff

Matron and Deputy Head of Nursing at the Children's Hospital Evelyn Gysei-Appiah and Deputy Chief Nurse Robin Binks with Healthcare Musicians Sarah Matthews and Oli Matthews

Healthcare Musician Oli Matthews working on the Children's Critical Care Unit

Re-Connecting

The morning’s Healthcare Musician practice had joys that ranged from the first smile of a very young baby in the Neonatal Unit to the last song of an older person’s life.

As I take a few moments to reflect upon what it means to be back in hospitals making music, I am once again overwhelmed by the human connection and depth of emotion tapped into by musical interactions in person.

As OPUS musicians, we profoundly felt the frustrations of not being able to be involved and to be present within the spaces at all for the last three years. It has taken such a lot to come back to work, and we are so delighted to be doing it once again. As the crisis of COVID-19 slips a little more into the past, we now find ourselves as Healthcare Musicians able to bring something of connective humanity into these difficult and delicate spaces once more.

We took our time in choosing the right moment and piece of music for the new family in the NICU. Twinkle Twinkle was chosen. The parents videoed their little one as they seemed to be sleeping. Then, just gradually, the first little smile appeared across their face. Then once and twice more before the final verse was sung. How special it was as Dad went back through the video and froze the frame where he saw his little one smile for the very first time. How wonderful to play this intimate role in helping to make memories for this family from such an early age.

For the older person we met later that same morning, it seemed hard to choose the piece to play to begin with. What would have the right content for this human being who had lived a long full life and was nearing the end of the journey? Having spoken with the relative, who had enthusiastically beckoned us in, we settled on Diamond Day – a lovely gentle piece including elements of descriptors of the countryside, the horses passing, the crops growing, and the people that you meet as you go through life. We were then told that they had owned a cart horse when very young and had often spoken about this. We had, fortunately, picked something truly connective and meaningful for this family experience.

Another older patient videoed us playing and singing Edelweiss all through. At the end they said “Aw, that was romantic! We do need a bit of that right now, don’t we?!” I think I know just what they meant…

It is important to reflect that these in person experiences are potentially powerful and meaningful for both the patients AND the Healthcare Musician. It is part our chosen professional musical world, and for the last three years there has been a definite void…

– Sarah Matthews

Music and Health

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This video, created for our Take One A Day programme towards the end of 2020 was an attempt at capturing the results of this creative inspiration during a walk, before it was lost. It was inspired by a White Egret who’s rock I borrowed to sit and play out the tune that followed.

Molly

Take a Breath

I created this video to help us all take a minute, breathe and be mindful of ourselves and our surroundings in this moment.

Mindfulness is a mental state achieved by focusing one’s awareness in the present moment, while calmly acknowledging and accepting one’s feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations. It is often used as a therapeutic technique, and helps calm and reduce stress.

Watch the video and find out more about Mindfulness and the ‘STOP’ technique.

Oli

Sarah

Ben

Where can I find out more?

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OPUS Music Training at Mansfield Community Hospital

OPUS Music becomes National Portfolio Organisation

OPUS Music CIC is delighted to become part of Arts Council England’s National Portfolio from 1 April 2023

Re-Connecting

The morning’s Healthcare Musician practice had joys that ranged from the first smile of a very young baby in the Neonatal Unit to the last song of an older person’s life.

Find out more

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