Music and art helps soothe hospital experience

ST John of God Bendigo Hospital’s patients are set to have a calmer, more pleasant stay as music and art fills the atrium.

A baby grand piano and a permanent art exhibition are aimed at soothing those in the hospital’s care and their loved ones, with three local pianists starting a regular program of performances.

An exhibition by Bendigo photographic artist Lauren Starr has been acquired and will remain on permanent display, having opened in March.

The refurbished 1999 Yamaha piano has been installed beside the hospital chapel and is being used by pianists Catherine Moore, Peter Butler and Lucy Wang.

The music initiative is believed to be the first of its kind in the region.

SJOG director of nursing Liz McEncroe said music had been proven to provide benefits in healthcare.

“Lots of research has been done in recent years around how music enhances the patient experience and how it can help reduce stress,” Ms McEncroe said.

“It can foster feelings of welcome and serenity; it’s something we can all tap into, caregivers, patients and visitors alike. “There are numerous physiological studies showing how it can lower your heart rate and reduce stress levels, and I hope our piano helps to achieve those things.”

Ms McEncroe said the piano and exhibition would soften the clinical and process-driven edges of the hospital space.

She has a personal interest in the arts and said all music was emotive.

“Music can transport you to a different place, and it will work beautifully alongside the art we now have in the atrium as well,” she said.

“It will create a space where you might actually have to remember, am I here in a hospital setting or am I having some other different experience altogether?”

The Lauren Starr exhibition has been well received.