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WHAT'S IN A SONG?
Janet Roper, Violinist

The other day I was providing strolling music for an elegant dinner. When I do this I usually ask for requests at each table. At four consecutive tables the request was for 'Danny Boy'.

After the performance I was reflecting on the number of times I've been asked to play that song.  'Danny Boy' is by far my most popular song:  "Will you play 'Danny Boy?", "Have you played 'Danny Boy'?",  "You know, I haven't heard 'Danny Boy' yet". That is usually followed by "They just don't write songs like that anymore, do they?"

During my reflections, I realized that music is a portal to memories.  Each time I have played 'Danny Boy' that music has been a unique conduit to a different time or experience for each individual.

At one sing-a-long we had just finished 'Danny Boy' when a woman inquired if I knew the history of the song. Before I could reply she said "I used to sing that song to my son Danny when he was a little boy. He's dead now. Can we sing that song for my Danny?"

Music is one of life's earliest experiences, causing those memories to remain some of our most
deep-rooted. One significant song can facilitate reminiscences, bringing back memories of past accomplishments, special relationships, momentous events. This gives the person authentication
of their life experience, validating who and what they are.

Not a bad day of work for one song!

I invite you to consider the following:

• How do you use music to reinforce a sense of identity for the residents at your facility?
• How do you use music to encourage past memories?
• How do you use music as a celebration of earlier times?