Sophomore Eva Koshy and five other students step into the retirement center’s cozy communal room. As they prepare to play their instruments, the crowd of elderly people murmurs about how excited they are to watch the performances. Eva begins to unpack her instrument from her case, joining the others in the small, intimate space.
As the first student approaches the front of the room to play, the crowd falls quiet. All eyes go up to the front, waiting for the music to begin.
U-High students get a chance to bring joy to the elderly by participating in Harmony for Hearts.
Sophia Zheng is a junior at U-High and started Harmony for Hearts two years ago after playing for her grandparents in their senior home.
“When I grew up, I always played my viola for [my grandparents], so when they left, I decided to bring my music to them,” Sophia said. “I started my first concert at their senior housing, and all the seniors loved it so much, so then I decided to expand it.”
Since Harmony for Hearts has started, it has grown a lot and currently has chapters in Chicago, Ohio and Malaysia. However, Sophia hopes to see it grow even more over the years.
“I would love to see it expand even more and maybe expand it to more centers beyond senior housing locations,” Sophia said.
Aiden Yu is a sophomore at U-High and is the vice president of Harmony for Hearts.
“I wanted to help out the community with something that I’m used to doing, which is music and violin,” Aiden said.
After playing a concert, performers talk to their audience and get to know their stories and insight on how the music has helped them.
“My favorite part is the reactions. The seniors aren’t really filtered, so they really express themselves when you play something nice,” Aiden said.
Harmony for Hearts also has an opportunity for anyone to get involved and volunteer to play or plan their own concert under the organization.
“I wanted to get involved because I love playing music and I wanted to share it with others,” Eva Koshy said, who is planning her own concert, sophomore. “It makes me happy to see the joy it brings the residents, and I also enjoy talking with them afterwards.”
Harmony for Hearts plans concerts that are performed for older adults and disabled individuals, giving them an opportunity to bring music to them and spread joy in their day.
“I feel satisfied after playing because I get to perform, but at the same time, I get to help and brighten people’s days,” Aiden said.
As Eva plays the final note of her piece, the room erupts in applause. The crowd fills with smiles as the piece evokes memories. By sharing music to the elderly, students give a performance that helps create moments and connections.
