OPERA Workshop’s Community Connect initiative continues to make a profound impact through its Songs for Life concert series, bringing professional singers and musicians into care facilities across Limerick City and County. This initiative aims to uplift residents, offering them the joy and therapeutic benefits of live music.
Music, particularly singing, has been widely recognised for its positive effects on elderly individuals, especially those living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. The Songs for Life performances have been creating unforgettable moments for care home residents, staff, and families, fostering a sense of connection and joy.
Sinead Hope, Director of Limerick Sings Festival, praised the initiative: “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.”
A transformative
musical experience
In recent weeks, Opera Workshop, Limerick’s only opera production company, has staged concerts at Care Bright in Bruff and St Camillus in Limerick City. These performances have delighted audiences, often leading to spontaneous dancing and singalongs. The music ignites memories, evokes laughter and sometimes tears, creating an atmosphere of well-being that lingers long after the final note.
Shirley Keane, Director of Opera Workshop, reflected on the significance of the programme: “As a singer, I have often performed in care centres. It is heartbreaking to meet people who feel isolated due to illnesses such as Alzheimer’s. But after just one hour of live music, the entire atmosphere in the room changes. 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 featured sopranos Lorraine Galvin and Triona Walsh, accompanied by pianists Fiona Linnane and Eoin Scanlon. Opera Workshop hopes to expand the programme year-round, but financial constraints currently limit its reach. Sponsors and donations are essential to ensuring the continuation and growth of this valuable initiative.
Feedback from care home staff, volunteers, and residents has been overwhelmingly positive. Catherine, a volunteer at St Camillus, remarked: “In all my years here, I have never experienced a concert like this. It was incredible.”
Family members have also reached out to express their appreciation, having heard about the programme’s impact from their loved ones. Staff are equally enthusiastic, with Gillian Ryan, Nurse Manager at Care Bright, stating: “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.”
