Sage Gateshead

From the early 1990s Ken Gibson enjoyed playing the piano. Then, in 2010, he had a stroke following major heart surgery. This, coupled with the fact he had become a full-time carer to his wife Maureen, meant he was unable to continue his hobby, which had brought him so much pleasure. He became very reclusive and lost the confidence to try anything new and meet new people. Then one summer he came to watch a show at Sage Gateshead and a new door opened.

Now Ken plays in the Mandolin Orchestra, Bluegrass Band and Skiffle Band, which are part of our Silver Programme.

“I’ve gone from a person who was petrified to meet people to playing on stage almost weekly and loving it. I still have my health issues, but I have found that being involved in music has helped with my coordination, confidence and ability to work out things for myself – I no longer need the Red Cross to help me fill in forms, I manage them myself. Independence is a wonderful thing and I’m really enjoying the freedom the music has given me.”

Read the full article in the Northern Echo here.

Sage Gateshead’s Silver Programme provides a diverse range of musical activities for people over 50 in a relaxed, friendly and supportive environment. Find out more and browse our classes.