Over the course of five months, Live Music Now musicians, Duo Furioso, collaborated with residents at The Params, a family-run residential care home in Purley, London, dedicated to supporting people with learning disabilities.
Musicians Urška Horvat and Helena Švigelj, both cellists, led regular music workshops with residents aged 56 to 96. Together with support from staff, they crafted a song for the home, titled We Are The Params.
The song provided an opportunity for each resident to contribute creatively, bringing out their unique personalities and fostering a shared sense of joy and self-expression. The project culminated in a heartfelt song that celebrates the individuality and vibrant spirit of The Params community.
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Participant Feedback
“The music sessions would lift everyone’s mood, both staff and residents. We would all look forward to Urska and Helena coming each week…. Our resident’s and staff are all close like family. Nevertheless, the music sessions gave us increased opportunity to engage with each other in a unique way by creating our own music together.” Indira Baster, Home Manager
“Thank you so much for the wonderful video. It is really amazing and has far surpassed our expectations! Our residents absolutely love it too, and can’t wait to show their family and friends.” Indira Baster, Home Manager
A resident who usually does not like to take part ingroup activities would say with a big smile every Thursday morning, ‘It’s music today, I like it!’
“The residency was an incredible experience, filled with joy and a deep sense of connection with everyone involved. I feel immensely proud of the entire group, residents and staff. It was more than just a project; it was a chance to build meaningful relationships, full of warmth, trust, and genuine connection. The bonds we formed went beyond the work itself and created a sense of community that was both enriching and rewarding. The experience will stay with me for a long time, and I feel grateful for the opportunity to be a part of something so special.” Urška Horvat
Project supported by the Drapers’ Charitable Fund.
You can find out more about our work in care homes here or contact our Music in Health team, Music in Health [email protected]
