Music's healing power

Music in Hospitals & Care is a charity that improves the health and wellbeing of children and adults through the healing power of live music.

Every year, professional musicians share live music with over 100,000 people from across the UK, who may not otherwise get to experience it. This includes those living with dementia, who have mental health problems, or who are seriously ill.

Music in Hospitals & Care believes live music needs to be part of everyone’s health and social care.

Research shows that live music heals. It helps people feel relaxed and confident, and can relieve frustration, stress and isolation. Music can also reduce the perception of pain. It brings back memories and helps create new ones. When you move your body to music – even just tapping a finger – it’s natural physiotherapy.

The charity’s dedicated music team handpicks professional musicians through audition. They’re chosen for their blend of musical talent, sensitivity and people skills. The live music experiences they create and share unlock all kinds of emotions – from joy to loss, pleasure to nostalgia. Unlocking these emotions supports people’s wellbeing.

Music in Hospitals & Care sees people interacting with its musicians by doing everything from smiling to getting up to dance or sing.

Live music can transform relationships between patients, families, healthcare professionals, residents, and carers. When people enjoy music together, they feel more connected to each other, which leads to more personalised care.

Thanks players of People’s Postcode Lottery, Music in Hospitals & Care can share the healing power of live music with people in hospitals, hospices, care homes, day centres, special schools and community settings right across the UK.

During the pandemic, their support helped the charity launch its #MusicEveryDay live stream programme to support a wide range of people including those living with dementia and poorly babies and their families.

As restrictions ease, Music in Hospitals & Care is pressing play and going #BackToLive to share live music with people in health and care settings.

Players have raised £400,000 for Music in Hospitals & Care.