Over the summer, I found my newest hobby: playing my viola for nursing homes.

Though I’ve played the viola for seven years in orchestra and competed in various events, I’d rarely played for others just for fun. I often thought about performing for others, but I’d find excuses like “I don’t have time” or “I’m not sure where to start.”

This summer, with no travel plans, I decided to use my extra time to work towards something meaningful and enjoyable. Knowing the positive effects of music on elderly individuals, I set my sights on nursing homes.

First, I drafted a proposal and reached out to around fifteen nursing homes across various cities, from Frisco to Dallas. Out of those, only two replied, both located in Garland. Though a bit farther than I’d planned, I was eager to get experience and decided to make the drive.

After coordinating dates and times with the nursing homes, I needed to choose the right music. I wanted pieces that were joyful and uplifting. I flipped through past solos I’d played but realized they were more technically impressive than emotionally engaging. I found an old book of solo Disney songs that I bought years ago but never had the chance to play. After flipping through the pages, the music seemed easy to learn and the familiar tunes felt perfect.

For my first performance, I was both nervous and excited. As I played, I noticed some residents closing their eyes, immersing themselves in the music, while others were even crying. At first, I worried, but as they came up to thank me, holding my hand, I realized how deeply the music had moved them.

Encouraged by this response, I returned to play a few more times at that nursing home and eventually at others. Whether at nursing homes or events, I look forward to continuing to use my viola to bring happiness to others.