Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra partnered with Marjorie House

The Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra (BSO) has partnered with Marjorie House in Poole, part of Care South, to deliver monthly live performances for residents, families and staff.

Dougie Scarfe OBE, chief executive of Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, said: "The BSO exists to bring music into people’s lives, including those beyond the concert hall, and this partnership with Marjorie House is a perfect example of how our musicians work in the community.

"We have a hard-earned and longstanding reputation for our creative health work, of which dementia-friendly music-making is a big part, and it give us the opportunity to take exceptional music into new settings to enrich the cultural lives of people of all ages."

BSO musicians join Marjorie House residents and staff (Image: Corin Messer)

The programme, titled ‘Music at Marjorie House,’ includes a year of monthly concerts designed to spark joy, support memory and encourage social connection.

Each session will feature duets, classical pieces and selections based on residents’ personal memories and musical preferences.

The scheme began with a taster session by cellist Judith Burgin and accordion player Hugh Nankivell.

Georgie Powell, home manager at Marjorie House, said: "We are thrilled to welcome these extremely talented musicians from Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra into the home to play for our residents on a regular basis.

"Many of our residents have enjoyed BSO’s recitals at the Lighthouse over the years, which is located close to the home, and they all have a real passion for music, so this is a very exciting opportunity for us.

"They have already spoken to the musicians about the music that reminds them of their childhood, their families and friends or invokes a special memory, so they are looking forward to hearing some of those pieces live, up-close and in-person.

"We are certain that these sessions will further enhance resident wellbeing as music has proven benefits for older adults including lifting mood, supporting memory, and fostering connection."

Marjorie House, Care South’s newest care home, provides residential and dementia care in an Art Deco-style setting overlooking Poole Harbour.

The home was recently recognised as one of the Top 20 Care Homes in the South West at the Care Home Awards 2026.

Care South is a not-for-profit charity offering residential, dementia and nursing care in Dorset, Devon and Somerset, as well as care-at-home services in Dorset and Somerset.

More information about the BSO’s community work is available at their website.

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