Songs that Soothe: Artists in Healthcare Manitoba Helps Heal with Art

Since 2001, Artists in Healthcare Manitoba (AIHM) has been enhancing patient, family, and staff wellness in healthcare communities by programming creative arts and music in various facilities throughout the province.

Reaching thousands of patients and visitors each month, dozens of musicians have been employed by the program. AIHM also administers a summer program which invites students to play and sing in healthcare facilities in southern Manitoba. For the past 10 years, folk and blues songtress Lois Gillespie has strummed tunes for AIHM, among others including multi-genre guitarist Keith Price and singer/songwriters Vanessa Kuzina (of world-touring folk outfit Oh My Darling).

"Working for AIHM reminds me how music has the power to deeply connect us with each other [and] gives artists the opportunity to be a part of something very meaningful." says Kuzina of the her experience. "It is out of the lights and off of the stage, in a waiting room, on a ward or at a bedside, and the healing power is undeniable."

"In the past 10 years working with AIHM, I have had the pleasure of observing first hand the healing, soothing effect that music has on people suffering through health issues," says Gillespie. "The positive effect on patients, staff, and families is tangible and this work has also greatly contributed to my artistic/personal growth."

Currently, AIHM is seeking public votes to raise funds through the Aviva Community Fund to support a full-time music program which would employ six Manitoba musicians for one year. 

Read more about it in the Winnipeg Free Press and CBC Scene.