Meet David Dunne, Our Featured Volunteer from Chicago!
Get to know our volunteers!
Do you volunteer at a specific hospital? I volunteer at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab and Chicago Methodist Senior Services.
How long have you been volunteering with Musicians On Call? I think it’s 12 months since I started volunteering
Are you a volunteer guide or musician? Musician
What is your favorite song to play for patients? Too many to say, but, I love playing “Make You Feel My Love” by Adele, written by Bob Dylan.
Do you perform anywhere else besides with MOC? I played professionally for about 12 years when I was in my 20’s. I still do occasional private gigs.
What is your occupation outside of MOC? I’m now retired, but was a real estate appraiser for 35 years.
Do you have any hidden talents? Not that I know of. I also write my own songs
What is your story? What connects you with music and why do you volunteer with MOC? After I retired, I was looking for an activity that maybe involved music. I saw a feature of MOC on the CBS Sunday Morning show. I thought that’s perfect for me and I got in touch with the group.
What makes MOC different from your other volunteer experiences? It’s very well organized and very professional.
Has your life changed because of your experience with Musicians On Call? Yes, it has made me take a good look at my own life and count my blessings every day, especially when I play for someone of my own age.
What is your favorite #MOCmoment? We encountered a patient one time, who was indifferent about hearing a song. She eventually let me play her a tune. After I finished, she said “I was having what I thought was a very bad day. But, your singing and song was the most wonderful 3 minutes of my day. You lifted me out of a very sad state.