The world-famous orchestra Britten Sinfonia will give a special performance at Norfolk's biggest hospital next month.
The event, to be held on September 2 in the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital's East Atrium, will mark the end of the orchestra’s first five-week neurology residency supported by the N&N Hospitals Charity.
During the residency, musicians worked directly with patients, families, and staff in neurology wards, offering live performances, interactive music-making, and creative sessions tailored to the clinical environment.
One patient said: "I've been fortunate to attend two of the performance and participation sessions as hosted by Britten Sinfonia.
"Listening to beautiful music lifted my spirits and calmed my mind.
"These sessions are a treasured gift from the ensemble which has immediate and tangible benefits to patients and visitors during an often uncertain and challenging time."
The sessions were led by composer and workshop facilitator Sam Glazer, alongside Britten Sinfonia musicians including Sarah O’Flynn on flute, Charlie Hodge on percussion and Bridget Carey with the viola.
They also collaborated with speech and language therapists in a morning singing group and supported occupational therapists in rehabilitation activities through music.
Sam Glazer said: "This has been a fantastic residency – we’ve been able to share some very special experiences with patients, staff, and families.
"It’s a real privilege to be able to explore and witness how music and creativity can enhance and accent the powerful networks of care already present in a hospital environment."
The project forms part of Britten Sinfonia’s wider programme of bringing live music and creative engagement into healthcare settings, building on work already underway at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge.
The N&N Hospitals Charity funded the residency, enabling the partnership between Britten Sinfonia and the hospital’s neurology and allied health professional teams.
The goal is to bring comfort, connection, and moments of joy to patients and families through live music and creative engagement.
Share