Memories unlock for Philadelphia seniors thanks to the healing power of music

WXPN Musicians On Call Volunteers the Paisley Pickles, a three-person band consisting of Frank Dellorco, Paul Bartholomew, and Mark Campanile, wanted to bring the healing power of music to a very special person. Alongside her family, they got to visit a cherished friend and former volunteer Gwen at her independent-living residence just outside Philadelphia. Approximately 30 residents and caregivers joined to experience the special performance, which filled the apartment building’s lobby with warmth, nostalgia, and joy.

A Connection Years in the Making

The Paisley Pickles have been volunteering with WXPN Musicians On Call, performing primarily at children’s hospitals, since 2011. This visit marked their first opportunity to share their music with seniors. Debbie Blum, Gwen’s daughter, collaborated with MOC to set up a special visit, knowing how much joy music continues to bring to her mother.

As MOC regulars at St. Christopher’s Children’s Hospital, Gwen and the Paisley Pickles had a long-standing relationship that transcended the hospital setting. Gwen was a vibrant and deeply compassionate MOC Volunteer Guide, and the Paisley Pickles were her perfect musical partners in uplifting children and families.

A Heartwarming Reunion and a Moment to Share with Others

When the Pickles arrived, Gwen was both surprised and thrilled, and she greeted each band member with a hug. Reunited, they each shared memories about their time together at St. Chris, and what it had meant to each of them. When the Pickles were getting ready to play for Gwen in her apartment, her aide suggested they instead perform downstairs, where other residents could join in the celebration.

For the next 45 minutes, the Paisley Pickles put on an impromptu performance to an enthusiastic crowd, who clapped along, swayed in their seats, and joined in singing. “The residents were dancing in their chairs and even on the floor! Many sang along, and we saw people hugging one another,” the Pickles shared. Gwen was radiant, sitting front and center as the guest of honor, surrounded by her friends and neighbors.

The majority of the audience chose to hear a “silly song” over mellow tunes, reminding the trio of the universal appeal of humor and fun across all ages. “Music can activate the brain in profound ways,” noted the Paisley Pickles. “We watched seniors reconnect with memories and feel that youthful joy.”

Gwen and her family’s relationship with MOC began when her daughter Debbie’s late husband, Andy, who loved music, would look forward to the visits from Volunteer Musicians during his hospital stays. Debbie noted the transformational effect music had on her husband and saw it again in her mother’s response to this visit. “Music is the best remedy for anything! It brings joy, stress relief, nostalgia … all the feels.”

The Healing Power of Music for Memory Care

For those facing memory loss or cognitive challenges, music can be a powerful tool for comfort and connection. As the Paisley Pickles saw firsthand, music helped Gwen revisit joyful moments, releasing feelings of nostalgia and peace. The event was a beautiful example of how music can bridge the past and present, creating lasting connections across generations. Both Gwen’s family and the Paisley Pickles are grateful to Musicians On Call for making this meaningful reunion possible.