Opera Workshop’s Songs for Life Brings Music and Joy to Care Communities   

Opera Workshop Songs for Life Brings Music and Joy to Care Communities. Opera Workshop’s community connect initiative has been an integral part of Opera Workshop’s outreach work. Photo: Shane Vaughan

Opera Workshop Songs for Life series concerts are are bringing professional singers and musicians into care facilities across Limerick City and County

The age and wellbeing Songs for Life series concerts are happening across Limerick City and County and are bringing professional singers and musicians into care facilities to bring music and song to all the people there.

Music and musical singing experiences have been proven to have a profound beneficial effect for elderly people, particularly those with Alzheimer’s.  

“Music has a unique way of bringing people together, lifting spirits, and creating memories. Opera Workshop’s dedication to bringing live music into care homes and community settings is inspiring. Their performances don’t just entertain—they connect, comfort, and celebrate the power of song. We are delighted to support their work as part of Limerick Sings Festival, ensuring that everyone, regardless of circumstance, can experience the joy of live music,” Said Sinead Hope, Director of Limerick Sings.

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In the past month, Opera Workshop, Limerick’s only opera production company, has coordinated concerts at Care Bright in Bruff and St Camillus in Limerick City. The events have thrilled patients, staff, and families alike. The music and singing, in turn, lead to some dancing with plenty of opportunities for audiences to join in and sing. The songs ignite memories, laughter, and often tears, creating an atmosphere of well-being that lasts beyond the final chord.

Shirley Keane, Director of Opera Workshop says, “As a singer over the years, I often performed in care centres. It was heartbreaking to meet people, many confused or isolated by illnesses such as Alzheimer’s. But by the end of a one-hour concert, the whole atmosphere in the room would have changed. Live music has a truly positive effect on loneliness, depression, and isolation. When that music is performed by highly experienced professional singers and musicians, the effect is deeply profound.”

The opening concerts of Songs for Life featured sopranos Lorraine Galvin and Triona Walsh and pianists Fiona Linnane and Eoin Scanlon. The Opera Workshop team behind the initiative has stated that they would love to produce this programme year-round, but it is not in the remit now because of resources.  This can only be done with the support of sponsors and donations contact [email protected]  for details.  

 The effect on those care homes already in the programme has been overwhelmingly positive. As proved by some of the feedback received from staff, volunteers, and residents.  

“In all my years here, I have never experienced a concert like this. It was incredible,” said Catherine, Volunteer at St Camillus’  

Family members are often in touch with the programme director about the programme after hearing about it from their loved ones who have enjoyed it immensely.    

Staff are also enthusiastic about the programme. Gillian Ryan, Nurse Manager at Care Bright, has said, “I am still reeling from the effects the performances had on the social club members and us! It was truly amazing. I really hope that you will come back to us.”  

 The programme will continue over the Summer and, if funding is found, will reach more care communities.  

As one of the participants has said, ‘If you can sing and enjoy the music, you have everything’ – Imelda, Care Bright Social Club member.