Emirati oud players performed for patients at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi as part of an initiative to incorporate the power of music and the arts into the healing process.
‘Music in Hospitals’, an annual initiative by the Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation (Admaf), is aimed at advancing the therapeutic power of music in healthcare settings.
Backed by extensive research demonstrating its positive impact on patient recovery rates and well-being, the programme offers music recitals to patients, families, and hospital staff, creating an atmosphere of solace and support during hospital stays.
“Admaf’s Music in Hospitals initiative, now in its 14th year, reflects our ongoing commitment to harness the power of music and the arts to encourage healing and enhance well-being,” Huda Alkhamis-Kanoo, founder of the ADMAF, founder and artistic director of Abu Dhabi Festival, said.
Supported by Dolphin Energy, this year’s edition presented a series of captivating performances scheduled over three days by gifted Emirati oud players Shamsa Al Jasmi and Said Al Ali.
“With generous support from our education partner Dolphin Energy, we reaffirm our joint efforts to empower communities and create profound social impact. The musical performances by our nation’s most talented musicians demonstrate the profound therapeutic power of music to aid the healing process and highlight our dedication to fostering a sense of inclusion within the community.”
The recitals by Shamsa were closed sessions catered to female patients and their families, designed to maximise the impact of music healing. The intimate and interactive nature of these recitals aimed to foster a deeper connection between the musicians and the patients, creating a profoundly uplifting experience.
Admaf presented a public session in the outpatient lobby waiting area of CCAD where Ali enthralled audiences with this remarkable talent. The soothing performance was open to outpatients, caregivers, hospital staff, families, and visitors, allowing a wider audience to benefit from the therapeutic melodies.