"PIANO NOTES"

When one walks through the front entrance at Hampton Court, the ebony grand piano stands out majestically. Other than being a fabulous piece of furnishing, the piano is also a magnet for fine music. People are drawn to the regal instrument. Some fingering the keys while commenting, "This is a beautiful piano." Others will actually sit and try out the instrument. "There is something magic about a good piano. It brings out the musician in all of us." A resident was brought to the piano. She sat and very hesitantly played a familiar song. Then, as if magic dust was placed on her arthritic fingers, she started to play and a broad smile appeared on her face. She played and played, albeit the same song, but it was her song.

Tony Gonzales is a regular pianist at Gramercy Court. He comes each week and has been coming for more than 8 years to entertain the residents with his renditions of old and new standards.

Tony has been playing the piano for more than 60 years. "Sixty to seventy years," says Tony. He began taking lessons when he was a mere 5 year-old. And he studied classical music for 8 years, but "I like the old standards."

 

 

 

 

He played cocktail lounge music for 20 or more years. This wasn't his real job, as he worked for Sacramento County, supervising housing projects. "I did this for 21 years and the piano occupied my time away from the job." He is also the organist at his church. One of his gigs was at the Nordstrom Department Store - "by cosmetics" where he provided mood music for the shoppers.

In the early days at Gramercy Court, during the furnishing process, the medium size grand piano was purchased. "Why does it have to be a grand piano," I was asked. With a firm commitment and a stoic comment, "because a fine instrument will attract fine musicians," I replied. And I am happy to say that within these 19 years, the piano has seen its share of fine pianists.

The Music Programs feature a range of music. Classical pieces, as well as the old favorites flow continuously from the grand instrument. And the resident who played her song is among those brought to life with music. For a schedule of musical programs, visit the calendar of events at www.gramercycourt.com

 

 

www.gramercycourt.com

 

ALTERNATIVES -
A Community & Family Forum

To plan and prepare for the future, information must be available for personal choices. A panel of Health Care Professionals will address any concerns and questions about end of life decisions. You are invited to an informative evening of answers on these topics:

END OF LIFE CARE
POLST
HOSPICE
NURSING HOME COMFORT CARE

Presenters:

Dr. David Lehman, Rheumatologist
Catherine Russell-McGregor, RN, MSN, POLST
Cynthia Wolf, Sutter VNA & Hospice
Barbara Torres, Sutter VNA & Hospice
Tracy M. Potts, J.D.

Sept. 22nd, Wednesday, 6:30 – 8:00 PM
Gramercy Court, 2200 Gramercy Drive, Bldg. #5, Sacramento
B/T Fulton & Morse Ave., off Cottage Way

A light supper will be served.

RSVP by Sept. 22nd, please.

*Continuing Education Units Pending. NAHP, BRN & RCFE