Guidance for Visiting Musicians
Soundbite
Art at the Heart of the RUH
Dementia awareness An Alzheimer’s society survey published in 2009 revealed that up to 1 in 4 beds in General Hospitals are occupied by people with dementia, and symptoms of dementia appeared to worsen in 54% of patients. These statistics suggest that when performing here at the RUH it is highly likely that you will come into contact with someone with dementia. Therefore we think it is important for musicians to have a small amount of dementia awareness information, in order to understand and behave appropriately in the hospital. Our Musician in Residence Frankie Simpkins is an Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Friends Champion and is able to deliver free dementia friends information sessions to any musicians that require it. During the 45-60 minute session you will learn more about dementia and how you can help create dementia friendly communities. This can be beneficial to any work you might do with people with dementia and also in your day-to-day life. Should timing not allow for you to attend an information session then we can provide a basic information sheet, which is a minimum requirement for our musicians to have read in order to perform on the wards.
If you would like more information, have any questions, or would like to request a Dementia Friends information session please contact Frankie Simpkins our Musician in Residence on: f.simpkins@nhs.net
When and where Performances usually take place 13.00-13.30 in a public area of the hospital such as the Atrium. Performances will then take place on 2 wards (subject to having up to date DBS check).
Repertoire Being mindful of the hospital and ward environment is key when choosing repertoire to perform here at the hospital. There are certain songs that do not work in this environment and can cause upset and distress to those listening. For example, songs such as ‘Danny Boy’ or ‘We’ll meet again’ can invoke sad memories and strong emotions. Ensemble advice – We don’t generally accept ensembles any larger than a quartet due to the volume around the hospital. We do on occasions have choirs perform which works well in the atrium, if you have any questions or would like to suggest an ensemble then please contact Frankie.
Ward Environment Performing in a ward environment is very different to anywhere else. As performers, we have to be mindful that people are ill, and there are doctors and nurses that need to do their job. With that in mind, smaller portable instruments work better in this environment as they allow for easily moving from bay to bay without causing disruption. We expect musicians who perform here at the hospital to be interactive with their playing, for example not burying their head behind a music stand, and always engaging patients in conversation should that seem appropriate at the time.
Art at the Heart of the RUH Estates and Facilities Directorate Royal United Hospital NHS Trust Combe Park Bath, BA1 3NG 01225 824987 e: f.simpkins@nhs.net www.ruh.uk.nhs/art Follow us on twitter: @artatruh
Soundbite
Art at the Heart of the RUH