Residents from three New Forest care homes joined fellow music lovers in the community to enjoy a live performance by musicians from Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra (BSO).
A trio playing harp, cello and flute as part of the orchestra’s Cake Concert series delighted audience members at Boldre Memorial Hall near Lymington.
Among them were parties of residents from Colten Care’s Court Lodge and Linden House in Lymington and Brockenhurst home Woodpeckers.
The set featured light classical music and show tunes, and there was added interest with the chance to meet and speak with the musicians as they mingled with the audience during a break for refreshments provided by Colten Care.
Woodpeckers’ resident Karen Ball said: “It was a joy to see and meet the instrumentalists – harp, cello and flute – as well as hear them play. I hope for more.”
Also acknowledging the quality of the performance was resident Brian Bull. “It was a most enjoyable morning,” he said.
Fiona Pritchard, Colten Care’s Music and Arts Partner, said: “Music is a huge part of life at all our homes. It was wonderful to travel to the Cake Concert to hear the BSO musicians whose playing evokes such joy and reminiscence among our residents.”
Specifically developed for people living with dementia, but open to all, BSO’s community-based Cake Concerts are chamber performances staged in informal and relaxed environments, combining classical repertoire in a social setting with tea, coffee and cake.
They are designed to promote social interaction and connection by bringing live classical music into the community.
Head of BSO Participate, Lucy Warren, said: “Our musicians were thrilled to return to Boldre Memorial Hall, and to receive such a warm response from the audience. The BSO Cake Concerts take place throughout the year and are designed to help reduce isolation, support carers and improve wellbeing, through encouraging connections and beautiful music in relaxed settings.
“We’re grateful to Colten Care for its support in bringing enthusiastic members of the audience – and for its volunteers who serve hot drinks and delicious cake at our New Forest-based events. It’s always a lovely day out for everyone involved.”
