Maranoa musicians spark memories at Westhaven

Maranoa Music Inc brought their tunes to the aged care facility, much to the delight of residents and their families.

MELODIES: Annie McArthur, Jim Flanders, Sam Muller, Ross Webster, Christine Webster, Hannah McCullagh and Maisie Flanders. Picture: Jorja McDonnell

SWEET melodies filled the halls of Westhaven thanks to the talents of local musicians from Maranoa Music Inc.

The community band held a special performance at the aged care facility on Saturday morning, brightening the weekend for residents and their visiting loved ones.

"Music gets all of the residents going,” said Maisie Flanders, the wife of resident Jim Flanders.

"We love our music, not that we ever did play, so to have this is just amazing.”

Having the music come to Westhaven had a remarkable - and noticeable - effect on the residents.

"There are two things you don't lose as you age: your sense of smell and a music memory,” advanced recreation co-ordinator Trish Jamieson said.

"It can be very deep and if you ask someone who has lost their memory if they remember a song, they will smile and know straight away, will remember children and grandchildren all through the association with music.”

For the community band, being able to bring that to the region's seniors was a privilege in itself.

"We all feel so honoured to be invited in to Westhaven,” Maranoa Music conductor Sam Muller said.

"As an ensemble we enjoyplaying at any community events and sharing live music with the Maranoa.”