Student musician lives with senior citizens, creates connection through live music

Amir Kadamani Gonzalez, a talented student musician from Colombia, is bringing his passion for music directly to senior citizens by living among them and sharing his performances. Currently based at Springwell Senior Living Community in Mount Washington, Amir has transformed the traditional concert experience into an intimate, personal connection that spans generations.

With a history of performing in concert halls worldwide, Amir now serves as the newest musician-in-residence at Springwell, a role that stems from a ten-year partnership with Peabody Music Conservatory, where he is a graduate student. Unlike conventional performances, Amir emphasizes understanding each resident individually, tailoring his music to their tastes and stories.

"Everyone listens to music differently. Everybody gets something different from music, and it's very personal how they derive meaning, diversion, entertainment, healing, and connection," he explains. His daily presence at Springwell allows him to forge genuine relationships, learning residents' preferences and sharing moments that are cherished long after his residency concludes.

Amir's approach has had a profound impact on residents, providing a source of social and emotional support. Many express that this live music fosters powerful intergenerational bonds. Rachel Krug, a resident at Springwell, highlights the significance of this connection, stating, "The ability to be connected to a musician. I mean, many of us may have been to concerts where the performance is, you know, a distance away. But here, you can see how they are feeling about what music means to them, and it helps to connect what music means to us."

One memorable moment shared by Amir involved a resident who had been withdrawn for weeks. When he performed Elvis Presley’s "I Can't Help Falling in Love," she knew the entire song, sang all the lyrics, and later commented on how beautiful it was. Amir reflects, "You do it because of those kinds of moments." His involvement not only entertains but revitalizes the spirits of the residents, creating joyful memories and meaningful connections that transcend age.

This innovative program has expanded nationally, showing that live music can serve as a bridge across generations and provide vital emotional resilience for seniors. Amir Kadamani Gonzalez’s dedication exemplifies how arts and community engagement can foster understanding and companionship in unexpected ways.