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Pleasanton pianist brings music therapy to memory care
In Pleasanton, I’ve watched music unlock memory.
Every second Saturday, students of Dr. I-Lin Tsai, a Bay Area pianist and educator with Oclef, visit Ivy Park Pleasanton to play short “Empathy Concerts” for residents in assisted living and memory care, many living with Alzheimer’s or other memory loss.
The set list is simple: familiar standards and classic pop from the 1940s to the 1960s. The result is not.
Residents who struggle with words often hum along. Some sing a verse they haven’t recalled in years. Families plan their visit around these concerts because it’s a time a parent or grandparent brightens, makes eye contact, or taps a foot to a tune from their youth.
For the students, this is practice with purpose. They keep up with daily 15-minute lessons during the week, then use that work to serve neighbors who need connection. It builds confidence, empathy and a habit of showing up for others.
Pleasanton thrives on practical ideas that help families. Here is one we can grow: regular performances in senior communities, libraries, farmers markets and more schools connecting students to their community so kids see a clearer purpose to their education.
Thank you to the Ivy Park team for welcoming young musicians, and to Dr. Tsai for leading by example.
– Julian Toha, founder, Oclef Piano School
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