Applewood + Music = Happy, Positive, Inspired Residents
Applewood + Music = Happy, Positive, Inspired Residents
By Wanda Garrin, Engaged Living Coordinator
“Music is healing. It’s an explosive expression of humanity. It touches us all. No matter what culture we’re from, everyone loves music.”
Billy Joel
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When you visit Applewood, you’ll probably hear some kind of live music.
It may be coming from our community choral rehearsal, jazz ensemble, accidental orchestra, harmonica band or professional entertainers who are putting on a great show.
Regardless, it is music to our ears.
When I arrived at Applewood last year, I was amazed by all the exciting senior programming in place, particularly the cultural clubs, educational courses and live entertainment.
In speaking to residents, I learned that many had musical backgrounds—they played an instrument, sang in a group or performed in musical theater.
But over time, the business of daily life had pushed these pursuits aside.
And that is the beauty of Applewood – after working, raising a family, volunteering and taking care of the rigors of daily life – there is finally the time and the on-site resources to reignite or pursue a passion or interest in music, art, theater and learning.
Meet the Interesting People Who Live at Applewood
Expanded Opportunities to Play and Learn About Music
In partnership with our professional Choral Director, Charlie Clarke, we have added new opportunities for residents to learn to play an instrument or brush up their musical skills or interests.
In April, we will also introduce Applewood Music Lectures, beginning on April 16 with “Along Memory Lane – Songs from the Late 30’s and Early 40’s” featuring the music and expertise of Dillies Pilevsky of Brookdale Community College and Charlie Clarke.
On April 23, David Aaron, leader of the David Arron Orchestra, will present “The Rise and Fall of the Big Band Era.”
Charlie is offering weekly private piano instruction to beginners, former pianists or experienced musicians who may wish to work on more challenging material.
I was delighted to see several names on the sign-up list for these 30-minute lessons.
In addition, Charlie also leads a new Music Jam Session for any resident singer, musician or music lover at any skill level, including beginners. He supplies guitars, ukuleles, hand percussion, homemade instruments–or you can bring your own.
We had a dozen participants at our first jam session, so a band is born!
Need a quiet place to practice an instrument or sing to your heart’s content? Our private practice room is always open in Apartment 1131.
Learn More about Engaged Living™ at Applewood
About our Musical Director, Charlie Clarke
Charlie began playing piano at the age of 12 and studied music at the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston and later Rutgers University. He has been taught by the best in the music business, including renowned jazz greats Kenny Baron, Frank Foster and Paul Jeffries. Charlie performs regularly with his duo when he’s not managing a plethora of other musical endeavors.
He has been the musical director for the Applewood Chorus since 2014.
Applewood Promotes Culture, Health and Spiritual Vitality
Our active continuing care retirement community (CCRC) is a safe and vivacious place to call home. Retirement living is a gift to be enjoyed after decades of hard work.
We hope you’ll consider living life well at Applewood, located minutes from the Jersey Shore and easy travel distance to New York City and Philadelphia.
If you would like to learn more about our Engaged Living™ clubs and programs, please feel free to contact me directly.
Call (732) 303-7416 to schedule your personal visit or attend one of our upcoming special events.