Volunteers now perform for patients on a weekly basis
at three local healthcare facilities
Musicians On Call (MOC), a nonprofit that brings live and recorded music to the bedsides of patients in healthcare facilities, hosted its Chicago Launch Party on Thursday, November 8 at The Underground to celebrate the launch of its Bedside Performance Program in Chicago. The intimate celebration was presented by Genentech, a member of the Roche Group, and Tito’s Handmade Vodka, and included an exclusive performance by Atlantic Records / Warner Music Nashville recording artist Michael Ray. The country star launched into a high-energy set for the crowd of community supporters, music lovers and healthcare leaders, treating attendees to No. 1 hits “Think A Little Less,” “Kiss You in the Morning” and his current single “One That Got Away,” plus songs from his sophomore album Amos.
As part of the launch celebration, Ray visited Chicago Methodist Senior Services (CMSS) earlier in the day to perform for residents. Musicians On Call first piloted its Bedside Performance Program at CMSS and Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago at the start of the year. Since then the programs have grown to include 27 volunteers who visit patients and residents on a weekly basis at both facilities, as well Shirley Ryan AbilityLab. Since the start of the year, MOC’s Volunteer Musicians have performed for more than 1,100 individuals in Chicago facilities.
“This is the second Bedside Performance Program launch that I’ve gotten to be a part of, and each time I get to play for those patients, I’m reminded why we all do what we do. Musicians On Call is such a great organization and brings the healing power of music to those that need it most – I’m lucky to play a part in it,” said Ray.
“We are thrilled to be bringing the healing power of music to Chicago and are grateful for the opportunity to celebrate our new programs with our community supporters and volunteers who have already given so much of their time to bring live music into local healthcare facilities,” said Musicians On Call President Pete Griffin, “This city is a fantastic music hub and has embraced us so warmly. As our programs grow we look forward to sharing the talents of local musicians with thousands more patients, families and caregivers.”
Musicians On Call believes that all patients, families and caregivers should have access to and benefit from the healing power of live music. It has been demonstrated that music has a direct effect on people and can: improve blood pressure, manage stress, alleviate pain and improve pain tolerance, access and express feelings, enhance memory and access positive memories, improve mindset/emotional outlook, promote physical rehabilitation, and reduce length of hospital stay.
Since 1999, Musicians On Call Volunteer Musicians have performed for more than 675,000 individuals in 19 major markets across the country. The organization is looking for more volunteers in Chicago. There are opportunities for musicians and non-musicians who can apply as Volunteer Guides and escort the musicians room to room. To apply visit www.musiciansoncall.org/volunteer/.