Lieutenant-Governor Zooming concerts for seniors

ONTARIO – Lieutenant-Governor Elizabeth Dowdeswell is connecting with seniors across the province and bringing entertainment with her.

“As the province slowly moves towards a re-opening, her Honour Elizabeth Dowdeswell, is undertaking a number of initiatives to support the community and engage with audiences impacted by the pandemic,” the Lieutenant-Governor’s staff released in a statement today (Aug. 12). “One project the lieutenant governor has pursued keenly is a series of Zoom calls with residents of long-term care facilities. This is an opportunity for them to share some of their experiences during the lockdown and hear some of Her Honour’s own learnings and reflections.”

Since Dowdeswell is an avid music lover, she invited Concerts in Care to join her in putting on some virtual concerts as part of these calls.

“Concerts in Care Ontario responded immediately, and we have already scheduled Zoom calls with seniors in Ottawa, London, Sudbury, Windsor and Toronto,” she said. “Now, more than ever it’s important to bring moments of pleasure and respite to those living in isolation.”

Dowdeswell believes nothing compares to music for lifting spirits, and music has healing powers for us all. This has proven so in the Zoom experiences.

Given the current restrictions on gathering, and the caution with which seniors’ facilities are proceeding with new activities, Dowdeswell has greeted seven to 15 residents on each of the Zoom calls accomplished to date.

“The residents are thrilled to meet her honour, and they have universally enjoyed the live performances and interaction with the musicians,” Dowdeswell’s staff said. “The musicians are enjoying contact with audiences they can both hear and see, remarking that it is almost as good as an in-person concert experience.”

As the Crown’s representative in Ontario, the lieutenant governor exercises constitutional powers and promotes a strong and positive civic community. This initiative is indicative of her commitment to that work.

For more information, contact Debra Chandler at 416-571-6170 or debra@concertsincareontario.com.