Logan Reid
Music has the power to heal and bring people together. Musicians On Call (MOC) is one such organisation that brings live and recorded music to patients, families, and caregivers in healthcare settings. Volunteers at MOC are required to be 18 years or older, residents of the United States, and passionate about giving back to the community. Volunteering as a musician in hospitals is a rewarding experience, and most hospitals are open to musicians creating a relaxing and healing environment for their patients.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Volunteer role | Musician or non-musician (Volunteer Guide) |
| Volunteer Guide role | Act as the liaison between the hospital and the Volunteer Musician |
| Volunteer requirements | Be 18 years or older, a resident of the United States, and have a passion for giving back to the community and a belief in the healing power of music |
| Application process | Submit an application, complete MOC's Volunteer Certification (including online lessons and quizzes), pass a background check, complete volunteer onboarding, and shadow two in-person shifts |
| Volunteer opportunities | Music in Hospitals & Care offers community talks and gathering feedback on live music |
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What You'll Learn
- Contact hospitals, hospices, or nursing homes directly and ask about their volunteer programs
- Reach out to organisations like Musicians On Call (MOC) to get involved in their programs
- Submit an application and audition video to volunteer programs
- Complete onboarding and certification, including online lessons and quizzes
- Create a relaxing and healing environment for patients through music
Contact hospitals, hospices, or nursing homes directly and ask about their volunteer programs
If you are interested in volunteering as a musician at a hospital, hospice, or nursing home, you can start by directly contacting the institutions in your area. Calling or emailing the hospital or hospice directly is a great first step. Most hospitals and hospices will have a volunteer department, and they will be able to provide you with information on their music volunteer programs and guide you through the application process.
For example, Massachusetts General Hospital has an Environmental Music Program that brings live, high-quality music to public spaces in the hospital. They ask that prospective volunteers fill out an online application and include a 5-10 minute video/audio recording of a solo performance. They also provide free parking for volunteers.
Similarly, UCI Health in Orange County, California, has a "Music to Heal" program where volunteers perform in various hospital settings, including medical center clinics and inpatient areas. They ask that prospective volunteers email a video of them playing their instrument and call a specific number for additional information.
When contacting hospitals, hospices, or nursing homes, it is helpful to ask about any specific requirements or application processes for their volunteer programs. Some institutions may require a health screening, background check, or orientation for volunteers. It is also important to inquire about the type of music and performance expectations, as some programs may have specific guidelines or requirements to ensure the music is suitable for the environment and beneficial for patients.
Remember that each institution may have different procedures and requirements for their volunteer programs, so it is always best to reach out directly and express your interest in sharing your musical talents with their patients and community.
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Reach out to organisations like Musicians On Call (MOC) to get involved in their programs
If you're interested in volunteering at a hospital as a musician, Musicians On Call (MOC) is a great organisation to get involved with. MOC brings live and recorded music directly to patients, families, and caregivers in healthcare settings. Their mission is to harness the healing power of music and bring joy to the hospital experience.
MOC has a range of programs that you can get involved in as a volunteer musician. These programs cater to children and adults facing various health challenges, including veterans recovering in VA facilities and family members supporting loved ones. As a volunteer musician, you would perform live for these individuals, offering them a respite from their challenges and a chance to escape through music.
To get involved with MOC, you can visit their website, musiciansoncall.org, to learn more about their programs and find opportunities to volunteer. They often have openings for volunteer musicians and guides, so you can choose the role that best suits your skills and interests. MOC has programs in all 50 states and is expanding internationally, so you can find a program that aligns with your location and availability.
MOC also has a network of renowned artist supporters, including Bruce Springsteen, Dolly Parton, Kelly Clarkson, and Ed Sheeran, among others. These artists sometimes participate in MOC programs, so you may even get the chance to collaborate or perform alongside them. By volunteering with MOC, you'll be joining a community that believes in the transformative power of music in healthcare and is dedicated to spreading joy and comfort to those who need it.
Getting involved with organisations like MOC is a rewarding way to share your musical talents and make a positive impact in healthcare environments. Your volunteer work will not only bring happiness to patients and their families but also contribute to their healing process, as music can provide comfort and solace during challenging times.
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Submit an application and audition video to volunteer programs
If you're interested in volunteering as a musician at a hospital, there are a few steps you should take to prepare your application and audition video. Firstly, it's important to understand the role of a volunteer musician in a hospital setting. The primary goal is not to perform but to provide a service to the listeners, who are often patients, families, and staff. The music should be positive and uplifting, creating a calming and soothing atmosphere to reduce stress and anxiety.
When submitting your application, be sure to include a video or audio recording of your performance. This allows the hospital to assess your musical ability and ensure it aligns with their program's requirements. For example, the Environmental Music Program at Massachusetts General Hospital requests a 5-10 minute solo performance video or audio recording. Similarly, the Music to Heal program at UCI Health requires a video of you playing your instrument.
In your audition video, it's crucial to demonstrate your musical skill and your ability to create a relaxing and healing environment with your music. Choose pieces that are appropriate for the hospital setting and reflect your talent and expertise. The video should be an accurate representation of what you would play during your volunteer sessions. Ensure the video is of good quality and consider providing a YouTube link, as preferred by some programs.
Additionally, be mindful of any specific requirements or restrictions mentioned by the hospital. For instance, some hospitals may require a minimum of two hours of performance, while others may expect volunteers to play with minimal mistakes for at least 30 minutes. It's also important to be open to adjusting your musical style based on the environment and the listeners' reactions. Hospitals often seek volunteers who can adapt their music to fit the situation and create a positive impact.
Remember to follow any additional instructions provided by the hospital's volunteer program. This may include filling out an online application form, undergoing a health screening, or participating in a background check. Each hospital will have its own unique process, so be sure to carefully review and adhere to their specific guidelines. By submitting a strong application and audition video, you'll be well on your way to sharing your musical talent with those who can benefit from it in a hospital setting.
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Complete onboarding and certification, including online lessons and quizzes
To become a volunteer musician at Musicians On Call (MOC), you'll need to complete their onboarding and certification process, which includes online lessons and quizzes. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
Understanding the Role
Volunteer musicians with MOC bring live and recorded music to patients, families, and caregivers in healthcare settings. As a volunteer musician, you would perform acoustically, moving from room to room, bringing the healing power of music to those who need it. It's a rewarding opportunity to brighten someone's day and make a difference.
Online Lessons and Quizzes
MOC provides online lessons to prepare you for your role as a volunteer musician. These lessons cover important topics such as the impact of music in healthcare, how to create a relaxing and healing environment, and how to navigate the healthcare facility. The lessons are designed to be interactive and engaging, ensuring you have the knowledge and skills needed to succeed.
In addition to the lessons, there are quizzes to test your understanding of the material. These quizzes may cover topics such as MOC policies and procedures, health and safety guidelines (including masking and vaccination requirements), and how to create an inclusive and therapeutic musical experience.
Certification Requirements
To become a certified MOC volunteer musician, you'll need to meet certain requirements. This includes successfully completing the online lessons and quizzes, as well as passing a background check. MOC may also require an audition video and an application process to ensure your suitability for the role.
Onboarding at the Healthcare Facility
Once you've completed the certification process, you'll be assigned to a specific healthcare facility. As part of your onboarding, you'll shadow an experienced volunteer guide at least twice to understand the facility's protocols, policies, and expectations. This is an opportunity to learn about the unique aspects of volunteering in a healthcare environment and to ensure you feel comfortable and confident in your role.
By completing the onboarding and certification process, you'll be well-prepared to share your musical talents and bring joy to those in need. Remember that MOC is there to support you throughout your volunteering journey, so don't hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns.
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Create a relaxing and healing environment for patients through music
Music can be a powerful tool in creating a soothing and healing environment for patients in hospitals, and there are several ways to go about volunteering as a musician in a healthcare setting. One way is to contact hospitals, hospices, or nursing homes directly and inquire about their volunteer programs. Most healthcare facilities are open to having musicians play for their patients and will be happy to have you on board. Alternatively, you can look for organizations that specialize in bringing music to hospitals, such as Musicians on Call (MOC) or Music in Hospitals & Care. These organizations often have volunteer programs that allow musicians to perform for patients at their bedside or virtually.
When volunteering as a musician in a hospital, it's important to keep in mind the type of music you play and how you play it. The goal is to create a relaxing and healing environment, so choose music that is soothing and uplifting. Instrumental music, such as classical guitar or piano, can be a great choice as it can be less intrusive than lyrics and provide a peaceful atmosphere. However, some patients may enjoy singing along to familiar songs, so it's good to vary your repertoire and take requests.
To ensure a smooth performance, aim for seamless transitions between songs. This will help you play for extended periods without interruptions that may disrupt the calming atmosphere you are trying to create. It is also beneficial to vary your setlist to cater to different tastes and preferences. While some may enjoy classical music, others may prefer folk or pop. Having a diverse selection of songs will ensure that there is something for everyone. Additionally, be mindful of your volume and maintain a gentle and relaxed pace.
Volunteering as a musician in a hospital can be a rewarding experience, and your contribution can make a significant difference in the lives of patients. Music has the power to uplift, comfort, and heal, and your performances can provide a much-needed respite from the challenges of hospitalization. Whether it is helping patients relax, taking their minds off their worries, or evoking fond memories, your volunteer work will undoubtedly bring joy and comfort to those who need it.
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Frequently asked questions
Musicians On Call (MOC) is one such organization that brings live and recorded music to patients, families, and caregivers in healthcare settings. Music in Hospitals & Care is another organization that allows volunteers to get involved through community talks and live music.
The requirements vary depending on the organization and role. For example, MOC requires volunteers to be 18 years or older, a resident of the United States, and have a passion for giving back to the community and a belief in the healing power of music. Both guides and musicians are required to submit an audition video.
Volunteering as a musician in a hospital can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. It allows you to share the joy and healing power of music with those who may need it, such as patients, families, and caregivers.
You can start by reaching out to hospitals, hospices, or nursing homes, or by contacting their volunteer departments. Additionally, you can look for organizations such as Musicians On Call that facilitate volunteer opportunities for musicians in healthcare settings. These organizations often have specific requirements and processes for volunteering, so be sure to review their guidelines and instructions.
