Glenburnie Lodge Care Community in Wenvoe, part of Dormy Care Communities, has published what it claims is the UK’s first interactive book of musical memories – Magical Musical Memories – featuring songs and stories from residents across five care homes.
Joan Thomas, home director at Glenburnie Lodge, said: “We are thrilled to have been able to produce this book showcasing the musical memories of the ladies and gentlemen from Glenburnie Lodge.
“From the songs that we danced to at our first school dance, to the albums that became the soundtrack of our lives, each memory is a testament to the ways in which music has shaped who we are and the moments that have defined us.
“Music has the unique ability to transport us back to a specific time and place, stirring up memories that we may have long forgotten and through the recollections of these wonderful people, these memories will now live on forever.”
The book features favourite songs and personal stories from residents at Glenburnie Lodge and four other Dormy Care homes: Brockington House in Hereford, Pine Martin Grange in Wareham, Bramshott Grange in Liphook, and Foxhunters in Abergavenny.
Each song is accompanied by a QR code, allowing readers to listen to the track on YouTube using their smartphone.
Selections range from classical composers like Mozart and Beethoven to modern artists such as Queen, Tom Jones, and Cyndi Lauper.
Personal stories include Peter and Diana Andrews’ choice of Cyndi Lauper’s True Colour, the “anthem” of a road trip to the USA in the 1980s.
Vera Webber recalls seeing Frank Sinatra perform live in Las Vegas, while Lily Greaves chose You are my Sunshine, a song she sang to her beloved pet dog.
The book is priced at £15, with Glenburnie Lodge selecting a local charity to receive a donation from some of the proceeds.
For copies contact the care home on 02920 600020.
Card payments are accepted over the phone, and books can be posted directly to buyers.