Société pour les arts en milieux de santé
The Healing Power of Music
Numerous studies have demonstrated the benefits music can have on patients’ physical and mental health. Acting on the central nervous system, it can in fact alleviate severe pain, anxiety and muscular tension, impacts that have been proven to help patients with dementia, mental illness, Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s disease and cancer.
Founded in 2009, the SAMS—the Société pour les arts en milieux de santé—presents concerts for people living in various types of healthcare institutions such as long-term residential care centres (CHSLDs), rehabilitation centres, seniors’ residences and mental health facilities. Every year, more than 200 professional musicians present over 850 concerts, travelling to facilities located in Montréal and in many other regions of Québec in order to bring joy and consolation as well as reduce the isolation felt by people who are ill or have mobility issues.
During the pandemic, the SAMS launched Les Capsules du Cœur, short videos that take seniors into the homes and daily lives of the professional musical artists, and Les Appels du Cœur, during which singers and instrumentalists perform a few songs for, as well as have short personal chats with, seniors over the phone. Power Corporation proudly support SAMS’ mission of bettering the lives of some of the most vulnerable members of our society.
The musical performances that are held in health and long-term care facilities provide comfort and joy to thousands of Québecers every year.
BY THE NUMBERS
people across 350 healthcare facilities have benefited from close to 7,000 concerts presented by the SAMS since 2009
concerts are given every year by 220 professional musicians who partner with the SAMS
