Firstly, composers from across the country have been competing to celebrate the care received by Nightingale House Hospice.
The choral competition celebrates the 25th anniversary of the hospice built on Chester Road.
Warmth And Comfort
Judges set entrants the task of writing an uplifting song to reflect the hospice and capture the essence of care provided to families during difficult times. The competition also attracted entries with beautiful messages and fantastic melodies from across the country.
The winning entry is written by Alison Willis and called ‘Hold Your Hand in Mine’. The judges felt the lyrics of the song captured the warmth and comfort found within the hospice and experienced by; patients, families and the hospice team.
‘Hold Your Hand in Mine’ is set to become the anthem for the hospice, it will be performed at forthcoming fundraising concerts and services.
Incredibly High Standard
Hospice Head of Fundraising Laura Parry said; “We are thrilled with the overwhelming response we received from composers across the UK to enter this competition and be part of the hospice fabric.
“The standard of entry was incredibly high with a wealth of talent penning a great variety of songs, but Alison’s lyrics and music stood out as truly special. The song reflects the love and care we give to our patients and the connection between family members who are comforting and holding the hands of loved ones with life-limiting illnesses. Congratulations to Alison on capturing the magic of the hospice in her musical creation.
“We would like to thank all the entrants and the fantastic judges, especially Matthias Wurz, Music Director of Cantorion Rhos and Côr Glyndŵr for his invaluable help and support with this competition. Matthias, along with Tim Jones Head of Music at Coleg Cambria, and Charlotte Bailey, our Nordoff Robins Music Therapist at Nightingale House, formed the judging panel.
Help, Support and Care
“‘Hold Your Hand in Mine’ is going to be performed by the hospice’s own choir, ‘Nightingales’, once Covid restrictions allow. Choir members are excited to start rehearsing this wonderful anthem. It is a true reminder of what Nightingale House Hospice stands for”.
Kay Ryan, Hospice Day Services Lead, said; “I am so excited that we have our own song to celebrate the work of the hospice. The words are as beautiful as the tune. I hope when anyone hears it or sings it as part of a choir that they will think of the; help, support and care available here for those with life-limiting illnesses.”
Finally, for more information, please contact Laura Parry. Head of Fundraising at Nightingale House Hospice, on 01978 314 292 or email laura.parry@nightingalehouse.co.uk.
