A Buckinghamshire brass band has been spreading Christmas cheer around care homes—thanks to a crowdfunding initiative and generous donations from the local community.
The Amersham Band treated the residents of four care homes across Bucks to a traditional carol concert, raising the spirits of older adults this festive season.
Due to the pandemic, the band hasn’t been able to play together since March, but thanks to their Christmas Crowdfunder they were able to raise funds to offer a socially-distanced travelling band that can get out in the community and make a real difference to the lives of many care home residents.
Caroline Perkins from the Amersham Band says: “There’s nothing more traditional than a brass band at Christmas, and we’re really excited to be out in the community again, bringing festive joy and cheer to people at this special time of year.
“We feel we need to lift spirits more than ever this year, so it means so much to us all to be able to play together again. We want to thank the local community for their support, and we are delighted that the residents of the care homes enjoyed the concerts so much.”
The Croft Care Home in Amersham was one of the four lucky care homes to be visited. The facility provides care to 60 older adults with a high-level of dementia support need. The Croft Care Home manager, Louise Foyle-York, says the performance was enjoyed by the residents:
“The entire care team was completely overjoyed that the Amersham Band offered this very special, socially distanced carolling concert. Our residents always look forward to the yearly visit from the band visit. Hence, we are extremely grateful to the local community for its generosity and for the band members giving their time- it truly meant the world to the residents.
“This year, the pandemic has meant that most, if not all, of the usual Christmas activities and visits from local groups, have been cancelled and this made this performance all that more special for the residents.
“We requested a few songs including We Wish You A Merry Christmas, Once in Royal David’s City and Deck the Halls- we had a good sing-along to the music, and it certainly lifted spirits, it was very Christmassy!”
