End of Life Music
Bringing comfort, connection and humanity through music
Holistic Harmonies CIC is currently delivering an End of Life Music programme at Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, funded by Arts Council England through the Arts in Hospitals programme.
Working alongside the SWAN Team, Palliative Care Team and ward staff, our musicians visit patients across the hospital every Tuesday afternoon, offering gentle, person-centred music to people living with serious illness, approaching the end of life, and their loved ones.
We believe music has a unique ability to reach people when words are difficult. Whether through a favourite song, a quiet lullaby, improvisation, or simply being present, music can bring comfort, calm, connection and dignity during some of life's most significant moments.
What happens during a visit?
Every visit is different.
Some patients request favourite songs that hold special memories. Some enjoy singing along. Others simply listen and rest. Sometimes family members join in, sharing stories and music that are meaningful to them.
We also offer gentle improvised music, songwriting, and responsive musical interaction for patients who may have limited communication, reduced consciousness, or advanced illness.
Our aim is never to perform at people, but to create a shared musical experience that responds to the individual needs of each patient and family.
Working in Partnership
This project is funded by Arts Council England with match funding from the University Hospitals Charity and delivered in partnership with the SWAN team.
We work closely with:
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The SWAN Team
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Specialist Palliative Care Teams
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Ward Staff
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Volunteers
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Patients and Families
Together, we are exploring how music can become a meaningful part of compassionate care within hospital settings.
What People Are Saying
"Lovely and brilliant initiative. It brings so much calm and peace. I think my Sister liked it and I think all patients will love it too."
— Family member
So incredibly lovely. A perfect example of patient centred care."
— Hospital staff member
Why End of Life Music?
Research shows that music can:
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Reduce anxiety and distress
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Support emotional expression
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Encourage connection between patients and loved ones
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Create opportunities for reminiscence and storytelling
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Improve wellbeing for patients, families and staff
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Bring moments of comfort, peace and dignity
Our work is guided by a simple belief: everyone deserves opportunities for beauty, creativity and connection, right until the end of life.
In 2023 Holistic Harmonies received a National Lottery, Awards For All Grant to experiment with bedside music for people at the end of life and in palliative care.
How did we begin?
Watch the Project in Action
These short films offer a glimpse into the atmosphere and approach of the project:
Looking Ahead
This programme is currently being evaluated in partnership with healthcare staff, patients, families and artists by Shortwork.
As the project develops, we hope to build the evidence base for End of Life Music and explore how creative, compassionate musical support can become a recognised part of care for people living with terminal illness.
We are grateful to Arts Council England, the HARTS (Hospital Arts team), Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, the SWAN Team, and all the patients, families and staff who continue to shape this work.