Vol. 4 🥁
Notes from the Founder
Hello everyone!
What’s new? Let’s talk about it! New programs, a new service area, and new business happenings.
New Programs
We kicked off 2024 with our successful music theory class for adults which taught basic music concepts and keyboard skills. Our cardio drumming sessions were also popular for enhancing balance, brain function, and strength. Read more about these programs in our “Replay” section!
New Locations
We couldn’t be happier to share that we have expanded our service area! We have provided interactive music sessions to 4 new senior living facilities in NorthEast Ohio: Massillon, Wooster, Mansfield, and Mount Vernon.
New Business Happenings
We are grateful to have been announced as one of the top three businesses in the live entertainment category for Dayton Magazine’s Best of the Upper Valley. It was certainly an honor to be in the running with Prouty Plaza and The Rose Music Center at the Heights. A heartfelt “thank you” goes out to all who supported us!
And, on Thursday, February 8th, we were pleased to be named among the new business members at this year’s Miami County Chamber of Commerce annual dinner.
It is always a pleasure to celebrate the business community of which we are fortunate to be a part. And of course first and foremost, it is our pleasure to share the joy of music with our seniors!
Musician Spotlight
This quarter, our featured musician is Frank Svet. Frank leads Frank Svet Munich Express, performing at numerous venues throughout the greater Dayton, OH area.
Frank Svet’s passion for music shines through in every note he plays, captivating audiences with his unique blend of Alpine tunes. He transports listeners to the picturesque landscapes of Germany and Slovenia through lively polkas, enchanting waltzes, and spirited cha-chas. Known for his energetic performances, Frank brings the vibrant atmosphere of Munich’s Oktoberfest to every stage he graces.
Not only is Frank a talented musician, but he is also a respected figure in the polka music community. His dedication and contributions to the genre have earned him a well-deserved place in the National Cleveland Style Polka Hall of Fame, a testament to his enduring impact on the music scene. Join us as we celebrate the melodious journey of Frank Svet and immerse ourselves in the rich tapestry of Alpine music he so skillfully weaves.
Enjoy some of Frank’s recorded performances here.
Grace Notes
When we initially collaborated with the Centerville Community Chorus in 2023, they kindly gifted us two boxes of music.
This year, we had the opportunity to pay it forward by donating those boxes to a new choir in Bethany Village! This opportunity created a harmonious bond, showcasing the power of music to unite people + inspire future generosity.
Replay
Intro to Music for Seniors @ the Troy-Hayner Cultural Center
For those who regret giving up their childhood music lessons, never had the opportunity to take any, or simply wanted to reignite their passion for music, Krissy O’Malley led a 5-week course for seniors introducing them to basic musical concepts.
During the course, participants had the chance to grasp basic music theory and even play a simple tune on an instrument by the end of the class. The course included an instruction booklet for attendees to keep and provided instruments to borrow for the sessions.
One attendee shared, “I enjoyed having a keyboard that we could practice on and having the workbook was very helpful also. The little videos that [were shown] were very nice and helped also. I would definitely recommend this class to anyone with an interest in music and would take another class if one was offered again.”
When asked about their main takeaway, another guest replied, “trying something new and feeling proud of myself!”
Cardio Drumming Class @ the W. Milton Senior Center
The Cardio Drumming sessions at the W. Milton Senior Center were a hit among participants in February.
The energetic beats of the music combined with the rhythmic drumming provided a fun and engaging way to elevate heart rates and get those endorphins flowing. The session was not only a fantastic workout but also a wonderful opportunity for socializing and connecting with others in a lively and dynamic setting.
Learn more about cardio drumming and its benefits here.
Replay
In 2024, Senior Music Connection unveiled our new Spotify platform, where we will keep updated with monthly and bi-monthly playlists.
We kicked off January with the playlists “1950s Rewind” and “1960s Rewind” featuring top hits from artists like Elvis, Sam Cooke, Bob Dylan, Simon & Garfunkel, and others.
For the month of love, we launched “Sweet Love Notes,” a collection of classic romantic tunes to set the mood.
To explore more exciting playlists in the future, follow us on Spotify @ Senior Music Connection.
A Little Pitchy
Is that old keyboard or drum set collecting dust in your basement? Why not consider donating them to Senior Music Connection? Your generous donation can have a meaningful impact on seniors who take part in our music programs. Your support will help us conduct interactive music sessions, introduce seniors to the beauty of music, and give them a chance to connect with others through the magic of music. Let’s work together to spread positivity, happiness, and unity among seniors in our community.
To donate a musical instrument, email Krissy@SeniorMusicConnection.com.
Thank you from Senior Music Connection!
Quarterly Measures
After the bustling holiday season, we stayed occupied with weekly bookings in January and hosted seven Valentine’s programs in February.
We also conducted 49 Interactive Music Sessions across various facilities since the start of the year.
Cheers to a busy start to 2024!
“It felt good to be playing with a purpose and the patrons I spoke with seemed to have a lovely time!” – Josh
Fast Forward!
Join Our Sing-Along Choir
Come sing along with us to timeless classic tunes that we all know and love. You’ll receive all the details, and feel free to join in whenever you like – no commitments necessary.
We sing at Brookdale Piqua on the 1st Friday of every month at 10:30am.
Other Upcoming Dates:
2pm March 21st @ Troy Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center
2pm March 27th @ Brookdale Greenville
Fill out your form of interest here.
