Happy Summer!

The first day of summer is just around the corner, and we’ve already begun celebrating here at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital San Francisco with music!

There’s something truly special about outdoor concerts.  Being outside, enjoying live music, and soaking in the summer atmosphere is one of my favorite parts of the season. I wanted to bring that same joy to our hospital community, and on June 12th, we were lucky enough to host two talented violists from the San Francisco Symphony. They performed a beautiful concert on our patio, and it was the perfect way to welcome the magical season of summer. The musicians shared about their instruments, the history behind their pieces, and answered questions from the audience. It was a memorable experience for all who attended.

One of my favorite parts of my job is that I facilitate weekly developmental music therapy groups in the Intensive Care Nursery. These sessions bring together babies of similar ages for a parent-and-me music therapy group, featuring instruments, books, bubbles, and more. If there’s one thing you should know about me, it’s that I love incorporating themes into my sessions!  Our most recent group theme was “Happy Summer”, and who doesn’t love water in the summer?  For this special music therapy group, we added a water table to the session (thanks to our child life specialist) and sang songs all about water. To fully embrace the theme, the babies (and even some staff members) dressed in their summer best, complete with sun hats and bright, cheerful outfits.  There were smiles all around!

We’re looking forward to more music, sunshine, and meaningful moments as we embrace the season. Wishing everyone a safe and happy summer!