Bois Y Bryn, the Cwmbran-based sea shanty band, recently performed for residents at Thistle Court Care Home.
They’ve played across Wales and England, and are taking part in the upcoming Newport Shanty & Folk Festival on 31 May to 1 June 2025.
A spokesperson for the care home said: “Music and music therapy can support practically everyone, including those living with Dementia, and can help with engagement, aid in communication, and improve mood.
“Music can also assist with cognitive stimulation, especially for familiar songs or ones that have a steady rhythm and beat such as sea shanties. Music doesn’t just have a positive effect mentally, but it can also help with physical wellbeing, being proven to reduce heart rate, blood pressure, and even be able to help manage pain levels.
“Family members at Thistle Court thoroughly enjoyed the visit and it had a positive effect, especially for one family member,Ethel, who was engaged and told a team member, ‘wow I love them.’ Racheal, the team member, said this was poignant because it can ‘sometimes take many different types of activities to comfort Ethel, but she was engaged straight away and it was visible how much she was enjoying it’.
“Equally, a family member named Joy enjoyed it so much that she told a member of the team. ‘quick, they’re going, let’s go with them – they’re great!’, when the band was packing up to leave.”
