Swinging by with that big band magic

A kind-hearted Hamilton big band will play a rare concert for patients, visitors and staff at Glasgow’s Queen Elizabeth University Hospital.

The award-winning Michael Brawley Big Band will perform at the hospital as part of a musical programme of events on December 12.

The free concert from 7pm is open to all.

Gary Mitchell, of the band, said: “We’re thrilled to be performing within the atrium foyer at the hospital to showcase our music.

“Our set will feature big band classics and also soul and funk favourites. It’s sure to be a fun night. It’s a joy to fill the hospital with music.”

The non-profit-making band was set up by Hamilton musician Michael Brawley in 1995 to allow Lanarkshire school leavers to continue to play their chosen instrument.

Players range in age from 18-40 and they perform solely to raise money for well-meaning and worthy causes.

Over the years they have raised more than £50,000 for charity.

The musicians are stalwarts of the National Concert Band Festival and have been awarded platinum certificates many times in recognition of the high standard of their musical performance and individual talent.

The QEUH concert series was launched by Uddingston pianist Kate Barrie in October.

The series is part of an animating public spaces through music and exhibitions programme which is bringing music to healthcare facilities across the Glasgow and Clyde area.

Jackie Sands, health improvement senior for arts and health at NHSGGC, said: “Feedback from patients and visitors has been overwhemingly positive.

“We’re delighted to bring the culture of the city into our hospitals through music for the enjoyment and interest of patients, visitors and staff.”

Krisztina Lackoi, exhibitions and performing arts coordinator, said: “We’ve had seven concerts to date since the launch in October and have attracted an audience of over 3300 people.

“Highly accomplished musical guests have included solo performers, choirs and brass quintets.

“We’ve had lunchtime and evening concerts across all musical genres filling the hospital with music and celebrating the city’s legendary musical talent.

“Our music and exhibitions programme works to provide a warm welcome and distraction, helping to improve the quality of our healthcare environments for patients and their families, visitors and staff in collaboration with Glasgow City arts, education and voluntary sector partners.

“Research has shown that music in particular has psychological, physical and biological benefits within healthcare settings as it reduces levels of stress and anxiety.

“Music can also stabilise vital signs in pre-operative patients and speed up recovery for post-operative patients,” she added.