Music & Care - A Spectrum of Possibilities [Midwest]

Unlock the Power of Rhythm, Choice & Connection

A practical workshop for Activity Coordinators, Healthcare Staff and Day Centre Care Staff working with older adults.

What if a simple drum, shaker or tambourine became more than an instrument? What if it became an invitation to connect, communicate, reminisce, express, or simply be part of the moment?

Join Music & Health Ireland for an inspiring afternoon that explores how interactive, person-centred music activities can transform everyday moments in residential and day care settings. Rather than focusing on performance, this workshop is about creating meaningful opportunities for choice, participation and connection, supporting each person to engage in music in ways that reflect their interests, abilities and preferences.

Led by internationally renowned percussionist Dr Jane Bentley, alongside Music & Health Ireland Programme leaders.

Dr Jane Bentley is a Scottish percussionist, researcher and educator working musically with older adults, including people living with dementia, across healthcare and community settings. She combines her research, NHS practice and extensive training experience to help healthcare professionals use rhythm and percussion to create meaningful, person-centred opportunities for connection, participation and wellbeing.

Why Attend?

Whether you already have a box of percussion instruments or are just starting out, you'll discover how a small collection of simple handheld instruments can open up countless opportunities for engagement using recorded music, alongside visiting musicians, or as part of your own activity programme.

This workshop is also a valuable opportunity to step away from the day-to-day, meet colleagues from residential and day care services across the region, exchange ideas, learn from one another, and build connections with professional musicians who work in care settings every week.

You'll leave with:

• Practical rhythm activities you can begin using immediately.
• Greater confidence supporting residents through interactive music.
• New ideas for creating meaningful, person-centred musical experiences
• New professional connections and a network of peers committed to enriching life through music.

Come prepared to play, participate, connect and discover how small musical moments can make a lasting difference. No prior expereince needed.

This project is funded by Creative Ireland, Limerick City and County Council, Clare County Council and Tipperary County Council through the live music in residential healthcare settings scheme 2026.

Workshop Day :

• Date: September 18th, 2026

• Time: 3.30 pm – 6.30 pm

• Location: Irish Chamber Orchestra Studio, University of Limerick

• Cost: €20 (Includes light refreshments)

*Booking Priority given to Healthcare Workers

Registration: Secure your spot for this unique workshop day by booking your place. €20 registration

Please note your Registration Fee is non-refundable after September 14th.

Contact Information: For inquiries or assistance, please reach out to info@musicandhealthireland.ie

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Music & Health Ireland leads the field of music and health practice in Ireland. Their team of musicians is trained in best-practice musical and pedagogical techniques specifically developed to achieve quality outcomes in healthcare. The methodology and approach used is consciously grounded in cultural interactions rather than clinical goals.

Music & Health Ireland manages and delivers the largest programme of training and CPD opportunities for early-career musicians and healthcare staff interested in working and engaging with music in Healthcare and Community Settings across Ireland.

The organisation carries out projects with professional musicians specifically trained to work in healthcare settings. Their work is based on interaction and communication in a person-centred approach and includes families and care staff. With experience in delivering many diverse projects and professional training with European leaders Musique et Santé, Music & Health Ireland brings a wide range of experience and skills to this learning opportunity.