As we reach the end of 2025 and head into the festive season, we’re taking a moment to reflect on our ongoing weekly music sessions at Royal Brompton Hospital – a partnership that has continued to bring warmth, connection and creativity to the wards throughout the year.
Since 2022, Live Music Now musicians have brought music to adult intensive care units, surgical wards, paediatric bays, waiting areas, cafes and private rooms for patients in isolation. Week after week, these sessions have offered comfort, distraction and unexpected joy to patients, families and staff.
What is the impact?
The impact is felt most clearly through the words of the people we meet. “His folk music makes you feel so upbeat… starting slow then moving to fast was absolutely magic. It is so wonderful. Thank you so much!” About violinist Seth Bye
- “How wonderful to hear music in the hospital… your playing is so relaxing and it has been beautiful for my visitors to hear and learn about the instrument with me.” After hearing Rudy Green play the kora
- “I had a terrible pain in my chest and your beautiful voice and playing has made it go away and calmed me. It has made my day.” During a visit from singer/songwriter Maz O’Connor
These reflections remind us of the difference a few minutes of live music can make – relieving symptoms, lifting mood, reducing anxiety and easing loneliness.
“Patient in bed, exhausted and in pain after operation, said that having someone playing this soothing music here was playing such a big part in his recovery. “I listen to classical music a lot to keep calm while I’m working, but having it here live, I can really feel it is going to help me recover, thank you so much.” – James Bramley, musician
Reflections from the Hospital Team
Conni Rosewarne (Arts & Youth Patient & Public Engagement, rb&hArts) shared:
“Patients and their families have loved having such high-quality musical experiences during their stay… The soothing effect of live music cannot be underestimated.”
Royal Brompton’s 12 Days Of Music
As we move towards Christmas, rb&hArts have launched a festive campaign to raise both awareness and essential funding to keep programmes like this running in 2026 and beyond.
They recently shared a beautiful video featuring Live Music Now musician Chris Avery. Watch Here.
If you’re able to support, rb&hArts are inviting donations to help sustain this work and ensure that patients, families and staff can continue experiencing the benefits of live music throughout the year.
Donate Here
You can also read a reflection from rb&harts staff member Luke Blair on the impact of these sessions in his blog post, “Thank you for the music”, published by Royal Brompton & Harefield hospitals. Read here.
Thank you to the Royal Brompton team, rb&hArts, our dedicated musicians, and everyone who supports this work.
