A college live performance pianist has made an unlikely nest for herself whereas she continues her research: an previous age house.
Whereas Beth Christensen research piano on the College of Missouri-Kansas Metropolis Conservatory, she doesn’t have a dorm on campus, and as a substitute lodges at Claridge Court docket, a senior residing facility within the close by city of Prairie Village.
Positioned there in July 2023 as a student-in-residence by a partnership between the house and the Conservatory, Christensen says that the expertise has been particular, and that most of the residents are extra than simply pleasant faces she sees whereas plunking out a little bit of jazz or classical music, they’ve grow to be true buddies.
“It’s actually enjoyable to have a relationship along with your viewers as a performer,” Christensen instructed the college press. “At first, I wouldn’t do something too out of the odd—I might convey a vocalist generally, or I might play classical music.”
“As I received extra comfy, I might attempt new issues and play newer music. Typically individuals wouldn’t prefer it, they usually let me know. Others like to see the place the way forward for music goes. It’s enjoyable to have the ability to ask what sort of music individuals wish to hear and work it into my repertoire.”
In trade for her keep on the house, she is inspired to immerse herself locally as a lot as doable along with the routine performances, for which she can also usher in different musicians from the Conservatory.
Christensen’s free time is full of video games of ‘chair volleyball’ or doing a puzzle and speaking about training together with her pal Pat, a former trainer.
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The partnership is supported by Claridge Court docket residents Charlie and Mary Kay Horner, who had been concerned within the Conservatory for many years, and the director of Claridge mentioned that her presence has been enriching.
“We’re completely thrilled that Beth has grow to be such an integral a part of our group,” Mary Kay Horner mentioned. “Witnessing the connections she’s made with the residents is extremely gratifying.”
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“Music is such a connecting power,” Christensen provides.
“It bridges the divisions that exist between individuals. Having the chance to make connections with a group that’s a number of generations older than me has been so particular. These connections don’t make our variations go away, but it surely helps us actually recognize one another. It’s been such a good looking expertise.”
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