This all began with my dad. He lives in a care home nearby and I used to see him every day. We both love music and our regular treat was going to concerts together and sometimes staying in London for a bite to eat afterwards. We both thoroughly enjoyed those outings.

Like so many, I now rarely see my Dad. Sometimes, we’re allowed 45 minutes a week together – but often, his care home is in lock down and we don’t see each other at all. He’s blind, and due to the way things are today I’m not allowed to hold his hand and, like so many of our relatives and loved ones, I know he is deeply lonely and often in despair of ever being part of life again. This is a terrible, and cruel loss of connection.

I couldn’t bear the idea of my Dad and so many others, not having music in their lives. So I asked my friend, Virginia Slater if she would give a live streamed concert for my Dad’s care home. Without hesitation, she agreed and a few days later, gave an amazing, virtuosic concert, accompanied by her pianist friend Adam Johnson. Her husband Ryan Quigley, sorted out the microphones and the computer and their new baby observed all the proceedings. The residents loved it and asked for more – and that’s how Artists ‘n Residents began.

Since then musicians who would normally be performing in the world’s most famous and beloved concert halls, recording film scores for Hollywood blockbusters, or playing chamber music and solo concerts all over Europe and beyond are generously giving their time to help us bring live music every week. They too, passionately want to share their music with care homes and those feeling isolated and alone. They understand first hand, the deep power of music to heal, soothe, awaken the imagination, bring joy and above all, to connect.

6 months on we have seen the joy and the difference our concerts are making. Now we are taking a break to prepare the next season of concerts. Your donation however small will help us do this.Thank you for your support and helping us continue.

Music With Love, from Artists 'n Residents.

Jennie Muskett

Artists 'n Residents website