Kennedy Ng, a classically trained musician with a master’s degree in music therapy, began providing free therapy sessions at Union City senior citizen buildings back in 2002. After a brief personal hiatus last year, he is happy to be giving back through music again.
“Old age is the golden age,” said Ng last week. “We cannot forget what these people have done for us and this country.”
The 2010 season of therapy sessions began last month with events at Bella Vista and Palisade Plaza Apartments both filled to capacity.
“We use the music as a tool to get into their minds.” – Kennedy Ng
________
Friends, family, and others who live in the area but not the building are invited to be part of the music therapy sessions.
“It’s a very good activity, especially in wintertime when it’s cold,” said Ng last week. “They can socialize with neighbors and other people.”
He said that socializing an important component of the program because many of the seniors in attendance don’t even know their neighbors.
The sessions also help increase motivation and combat the depression and loneliness that many seniors are facing.
“We use the music as a tool to get into their minds,” said Ng. “The music creates a positive environment and a positive state of mind.”
Group effort for therapy
Ng’s career of helping seniors began 30 years ago when he worked in the psychiatric units of nursing homes throughout New Jersey. “When I stopped, something was missing in my heart,” said Ng. “I missed the music and giving back to society.”
For the past 27 years he has taught music for kids “from 5 to 100 years old” at his music school on Bergenline Avenue in Union City. He plays piano, bass, guitar, sings and tours with a jazz trio internationally, but said that making space for these music therapy sessions are a high priority in his schedule.
Ng also is the full-time community development director at City Hall.
Volunteers help
Ng added that the efforts of volunteers have helped make the program the success it has been.
“These activities cannot be done alone,” said Ng. “The response from the community has been very positive. When we need support they’re always there.”
Ng and his wife are also trying to set a positive example of volunteerism for their 11-year-old son Geremy, who often helps serve coffee and doughnuts during the sessions.
Mayor Brian Stack has also been a central supporter of the program, often providing snacks, dinner, or refreshments.
Plans for the new season
Ng hopes to add another level to the music sessions this season. In addition to his piano playing, he will also be inviting students from his school to perform. The invitation will be extended to those that are doing well in his classes and achieving good grades.
“It will give motivation to the students,” said Ng. “And I also think that the community will appreciate seeing the younger generation perform.”
Let’s talk about love
The next music therapy session will take place at Palisades Plaza, 3700 Palisades Ave. (across from City Hall) at 6 p.m. on Feb. 14.
In celebration of Valentine’s Day, Ng has a special evening planned. “I’m going to have a lot of love songs and talk about the topic [of love],” said Ng. “It’s a good thing, because when we have a good topic everyone socializes more and it brings good memories.”
The sessions will be held every other week until the program breaks for the summer. A special celebration is being planned which will take place prior to the summer break and will feature guest artists and an orchestra.
For more information about the music therapy sessions, call Kennedy Ng at (201) 522-7722.
Lana Rose Diaz can be reached at ldiaz@hudsonreporter.com.