This program, designed for the senior community, was created with an intention for each and every person to feel awake and happy to the best of their ability, including the residents, staff and administration of your facility. As those of you who work in these settings know, this can be a tall order! It's been possible, though, beyond anything I could have imagined. Music has this amazing power to open hearts and encourage listeners to do and feel things they wouldn't if they thought about it first. That's the beauty of "Happy to Be Alive"; I use the music, lots of positive energy and a belief that there is always more to experience, no matter how old we are, no matter how frail or absent we may seem to be. What happens when someone believes in you, loves you? Anything. That's exactly what happens during this program:
Stories of people who don't normally move in their wheelchairs responding with singing and speaking.
 Eye contact with a resident who seems unresponsive and asleep because they are awake and engaged.   
 A room full of people in wheelchairs, walkers or geri-chairs, dancing in their seats, waving hands, hootin' and hollerin' because they feel energy moving through their bodies and are having a blast.
 Staff members smiling, dancing and happy, watching their patients have an experience that is out of the ordinary. A resident making every effort to move their toes or fingers, just to participate in the way they can. Happy and touched family members basking in the glow of a loved ones joy.

What are the elements of this program?
 Music - a mulitude of styles including popular songs from the '60s through the present, showtunes, patriotic and inspirational tunes. Full PA system and a wireless microphone to make interaction with the residents and staff easier. 
Contact - loving, caring interaction with your residents. I am here to make a difference in their lives. Expect my full attention and presence!  Props and Fun - instruments, costumes, scarves and more, encouraging residents to participate as fully as they can.  
 Energy and Intention - perhaps the single, most effective part of this program is the intention of love and happiness, driven with high amounts of fun energy. (it helps that I can sing too!)

I am experienced and comfortable working with many levels of care, including Nursing/Rehab/Skilled Care, Alzheimer's patients, Mental Health, large or small groups and individuals. "The Musical Bridge" is also offered in a concert setting for the independent living and retirement communities. It's perfect for an afternoon or evening special event, creating fun, intimate moments and happy community. I am respectful of this population's needs and offer my style of music and fun, according to each audience's "feel".