I have been playing music professionally for most of my 65 years.  I have traveled thousands of miles all over the US, the UK and the Caribbean and written, recorded and released nine albums.  I have had so many wonderful opportunities through the years and although I am not “rich and famous,” I am far richer in other ways.

As I grew older, I realized it’s not all about me.  I wanted to use my music to make a difference in others’ lives and being a Musician Partner for Music for Seniors over the past seven years has allowed me to do just that.  I am so thankful for this organization and what they do. I count my work with them the greatest blessing in my life, which includes the biggest honor I have ever received: being named Music for Seniors Musician Partner of the Year in 2019.  It was such a thrill for me!

I love playing for our senior communities, especially memory care groups, because they remind me of when I would play for my beloved grandmother who had dementia and how happy it made her.  I see miracles every day playing in memory care communities.

Songs from days gone by bring smiles to their faces and many of them sing along and remember the words.  It’s incredible to see the transformation of a person who is non-responsive when you walk in the room to be suddenly singing and clapping along with you when you play something they know. I also love hearing the stories our seniors share with me about what a certain song meant to them and the memory it brings back.  I have been moved to tears more than once.

I also have had the pleasure of teaching the beginner and intermediate Ukulele Learning Labs in recent years.  These classes have been so rewarding and our groups are very special.  In fact, I am in the midst of teaching our 5-week intermediate Ukulele Learning Lab as I write this.  Some of the people attending this series have been with me for every series I have taught (this is my 3rd). We have a whole lot of fun together!

I am so thankful to be a Musician Partner for Music for Seniors and look forward to more opportunities to light up lives in the years ahead!

– Donna Frost

To support the important work that Music for Seniors does, please consider making a donation today. The good news is we have a generous match, $1 for $1 up to $25,000 through the end of the year.