On Oct. 21, the buzz of an academic health science center will yield to the harmonious sounds of the piano, flute and viola.
The chords will waft to the rafters of the Durham Outpatient Center and into the halls, giving employees and patients the opportunity for a peaceful pause.
“Music attends to the human spirit,” said John Benson Jr., M.D., professor of internal medicine, who initiated the idea for the new “Music as Medicine” series. “The music will create a restorative atmosphere of quiet contemplation.”
UNMC Chancellor Harold M. Maurer, M.D., agreed. “The opportunity to listen to music over the lunch hour is a wonderful way to calm the spirit and enjoy our lives as a medical center family. Thanks to John Benson for initiating this program.”
The first concert in the monthly “Music as Medicine” series is Thursday, Oct. 21 at noon in the Durham Outpatient Center West Atrium. Individuals may bring their lunch and eat (quiet is appreciated), while enjoying the classical performance by members of the Omaha Chamber Music Society. The Oct. 21 program will feature musicians Lynn Lawson (flute), Michele Favero-Kluge (piano), and Thomas Kluge (viola).
Dr. Benson came to UNMC one year ago from the Oregon Health & Science University, where a similar program is in its fourth year. “We’re so caught up in a technical, high-pressure, scientific environment that it’s nice through music to create an emotional relationship to the care we give,” he said.
Various musical groups will perform throughout the series, which is sponsored by UNMC, The Nebraska Medical Center, University Medical Associates and the UNMC Center for Continuing Education. A committee comprised of UNMC and The Nebraska Medical Center representatives has planned the logistics and secured the musicians for the series. Performances are planned for the third Thursday of each month through May.
“It’s a momentary repose during the middle of the day,” Dr. Benson said. “Individuals can relax, listen to good music and renew their spirit.”