Music students, teachers perform for senior citizens - virtually

Music students from Lincoln Public Schools are usually performing at nursing homes and assisted living centers this time of year. Even though that’s not an option this year, students and teachers are still bringing the joy of music to hundreds of Lincoln senior citizens.

A couple weeks ago, LPS Supervisor of Music Lance Nielsen asked music teachers and students to record themselves performing in their homes. Nielsen combined these to create one, thirty-minute video, which was then shared with Tabitha Health Services and other local senior facilities. He has since created another video, with plans for two or three more before the end of the school year.

“Our goal was to bring some joy, bring some comfort and bring some happiness when we’re going through this period of social isolation,” Nielsen said.

Tabitha has played the videos in residents’ rooms at its main location on Randolph Street. Ruthi Thompson, Tabitha’s director of life enrichment and volunteers, said the response has been overwhelmingly positive.

“During this challenging time, Tabitha is finding creative ways to keep residents engaged, connected and their days filled with the things they love, such as music,” Thompson said. “We’re grateful to the talented students and teachers for sharing the gift of their performances. It’s true what they say, music is medicine, and viewing these videos is an uplifting part of a senior’s day.”

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