Hospital patients and staff have enjoyed live music performances and workshops as part of a poignant – and often emotional! – initiative by Rhondda Cynon Taf Council.
Working in partnership with Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board, the Council’s Art Service hired a brilliant range of local talent to deliver weekly performances in the wards and common spaces of five hospitals.
Patients sang along to their favourite songs, waved their hands to the melodies and enjoyed the calming sounds of the harp, guitar and keyboard. There was pure joy as sentimental songs from the past were remembered and laughter as the “concert” was enjoyed.
Visitors and family members got involved, as did the nurses and staff – the performances were designed to support their wellbeing too. There were smiles and tears of happiness as they watched their patients sing along and get involved, with classic pop, rock, folk and Welsh language songs bringing back memories and nostalgia.
Elsewhere, hospital visitors and staff stopped to listen to performances in communal spaces. For many, the events were looked forward to each week, offering a moment of enjoyment and calm in the often isolating and stressful medical environment.
Cllr Scott Emanuel, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities, Culture and Leisure, said: “The Council is proud to have delivered Music and Frailty, which really has been something special – the music and singing lifted the spirits of patients, their families and hardworking NHS staff.
"It was heartwarming to see nurses and family members filled with joy and emotion as they watched their loved ones sing, clap and enjoy the music and the escape it provided from an environment that can be challenging for so many.
“Music and Frailty is an incredible example of the impact The Arts can have on the wellbeing of our residents. I thank each of the talented artists for the enthusiasm and compassion they brought. I look forward to seeing what we can achieve in 2027!”
Carlene Tucker, Directorate Support Manager for Community Services at Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board said: "We were pleased to partner with Rhondda Cynon Taf Council's Art Service on the Music and Frailty scheme and to welcome music to our community hospital sites.
“The music brought a real sense of calm and comfort to what can often be an overwhelming environment for some patients, and it also helped to boost morale amongst staff.
“We saw moments of joy, connection and even memory recall, with music unlocking recognition in a way that clinical care alone sometimes cannot.
“It also created a shared, uplifting experience for staff, patients and visitors alike – offering a welcome moment of positivity and reflection in a busy and demanding setting, and reminding us all why we do what we do.”
Rosie Dow, Arts Council of Wales's Head of Arts, Health & Wellbeing, said: “Our Arts and Health Lottery funding is designed to embed meaningful partnerships between arts and health organisations, supporting the delivery of high-quality creative projects that improve health and wellbeing for people across Wales.
“Programmes such as Music and Frailty show the difference this work can make – creating uplifting experiences for patients, offering valuable opportunities for artists, and supporting the wellbeing of NHS staff.
“This growing impact is also reflected in new independent research from Bangor University, commissioned by Arts Council of Wales, which highlights the significant health and economic value that arts activity can deliver in Wales.”
It has long been recognised that music can have a positive impact on the wellbeing of patients. It provides an emotional break from the routine and challenges of a hospital setting. It can relieve distress and isolation and even manage mood and physical symptoms such as blood pressure and pain.
Music and Frailty was first delivered as a pilot in 2025 and was such a success, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council secured Arts Council for Wales funding to deliver an extended programme in 2026.
Working with Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board, Music and Frailty was delivered at Ysbyty Cwm Rhondda, Llwynypia, Ysybyty Cwm Cynon, Mountain Ash, Dewi Sant Health Park in Pontypridd, Keir Hardie University Health Park in Merthyr Tydfil and Glanrhyd Hospital in Bridgend, with a weekly performance in each hospital for four months.
Importantly, the incredible performances were delivered by the talented local artists from the Rhondda Cynon Taf Local Artists’ Network. Managed by the Council’s Arts Service, the network is the first of its kind in Wales and connects over 200 members who make a real difference to life in the county borough with their creativity.
Music and Frailty enabled 33 local artists to secure paid employment for the duration of the scheme.
Plans are already underway to deliver the scheme in 2027.
Posted on 27/06/2026