Some of you who know me will not be surprised if I say that I love to sing, sometimes for no reason, breaking into hymns, Christmas carols or anything that comes to mind. We all know how greatly music affects our feelings and energy levels! Without even thinking about it, we use music to create desired moods - to make us happy, to enjoy movement and dance, to energise, to bring back powerful memories and to help us relax and focus. Music has been seen to provide a positive environment that enhances interaction, encouraging meaningful communication and a positive sense of self.
Ludwig van Beethoven said “Music is the electrical soil in which the spirit lives, thinks and invents."
So imagine my delight when visiting Bartlett Close and witnessing the most wonderful singing session. I observed some amazing interactions between Meg, Claire and Lucy in the kitchen.
Claire is extremely shy and reserved and on occasion can appear rather withdrawn; Claire often walks around with her fingers in her ears and head down. However, today Claire was interacting with Meg in a very animated way. Meg was sat at Claire's level, making eye contact, holding Claire's hands and truly engaging her attention. Meg was singing songs from the Sound of Music, and talking to Claire about the ‘whiskers on kittens’. Claire responded so positively, with huge smiles and laughing loudly in a way that moved me. It was wonderful to see Claire so happy and settled, and is a reflection of how well Meg knows her and supports her. We must never forget that we all deserve happiness.
Meg was also encouraging Lucy to join in, singing her most favourite song ‘Wind the bobbin up’ with all of the actions. Lucy joined in contributing to the actions and clapping her hands, making joyous sounds and waving her hands, a smile beaming across her face.
Beethoven would have identified the most beautiful flowers growing from such electric soil!
Now you can see why I stay at MacIntyre? This says it all, a privilege to work with such warm, caring people in a house of song.
Diane Smith
Area Manager
Oxfordshire and Bucks