We are three high school students in Bethesda, MD who are interested in finding ways to improve the well-being and morale of people during this COVID-19 pandemic. Our project, “Music for the Soul,” brings free, virtual, live music performances by experienced student musicians to residents of senior living facilities, healthcare workers, and surrounding communities.

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The COVID-19 pandemic has hit elderly individuals and youth hard - we have not been able to socialize with friends/family, attend concerts, play sports or engage in other hobbies. We know that clinical providers are overworked and overwhelmed while still having to worry about their own health and safety. In addition, the elderly, who were also hit hard, are cut off from human interaction because staff in living facilities are covered in personal protective equipment and they aren't able to see friends and family.

 

Since science has shown that music can heal, lift spirits, and reduce stress, we wanted to do something that would brighten lives during these tough times. Starting in the summer of 2020, we decided to use the power of music to reach out and connect with people. We are aiming to broaden our project to reach other parts of the country!

 

Currently, our performances are held for 45 minutes at 3:00 pm on the first Sunday of every month.