Volunteer Stories – Meet David and Sandra

Dynamic duo, David and his wife Sandra started their volunteer work at Juniper in 2018, providing musical performances at Juniper Chrystal Halliday, a residential aged care home in Karrinyup.

With his shiny gold saxophone and sunny nature, David is known for ‘brightening up’ everyone’s day with the sound of music.

‘We just love the interaction, and the responses that residents have to the music – seeing the enjoyment on their faces.’

David, now a retired professional musician, has been playing music for over 50 years and can’t imagine his life without it. Sandra supports David by operating the electrical equipment and plays the backing tracks.

“Without Sandra by my side, it would become very difficult operating laptops and amplifiers on my own.  Sandra enjoys interaction with the residents and seeing the joy our music brings. She equally feels of value volunteering at Juniper”.

“I play songs that are of interest to the residents – a lot of music from the 40s and 50s.”

The presence of musical instruments can evoke powerful reactions in people and just listening to music can be therapeutic.

“As a musician you are never really sure if the audience is truly enjoying themselves but after 20 minutes or so, you know. Most of the residents will tap their feet, clap their hands, smile or hum to acknowledge familiar songs.”

When the couple were unable to visit inside the home during COVID-19 community restrictions, they took to the garden area to play for the residents who happily listened by the window.

“I find it quite special at the end of the performance when residents will come up to me and say, ‘that was terrific!’ or they share a memory of what that song means to them,” said David.

If they could, the couple said they would play for the residents every day.

To all our valuable volunteers like David and Sandra – thank you! 

Become a Volunteer

There are many ways to volunteer with Juniper. Whether you’re a good listener, arts and crafts guru or a talented musician, your unique skills could make a huge difference in the lives of others. To learn more about how you can get involved, visit our Volunteer Page or get in touch with us on 9240 0313 and speak with our Volunteer Coordinator.