There’s a moment that happens sometimes when music starts to play: shoulders soften, faces brighten, fingers begin to tap along to the rhythm. For people living with dementia, those moments can be especially powerful—because music can reach places words can’t.

That simple, human truth is at the heart of Harmony for Health, a program created by Cedar Falls High School students to share live music with residents at Western Home Communities, with a special focus on connecting with those living in memory care.

What is Harmony for Health?

Student leader Andrew Goetsch describes Harmony for Health as a way for high school students to share their gift of music while building relationships with residents—especially those in dementia care.

That shared language becomes a bridge: a way for students to build social skills and for residents to engage, connect, and enjoy something familiar and meaningful.

The moment that inspired it all

The program began with a story Andrew heard from his mom, who volunteers at Western Home. She told him about a gentleman living with Alzheimer’s who was fatigued, angry, and didn’t want to talk.

Then she played a snippet from one of Andrew’s jazz concerts.

“During that he immediately lit up like a light bulb. He was happy. He was tapping his foot.”
— Andrew Goetsch

That instant shift stayed with Andrew. The idea that something as small as music could flip a switch—helping someone re-engage, interact, and feel joy—became the spark that turned into Harmony for Health.

Support that helped the program launch

To help get the program off the ground, Andrew applied for a $2,000 city grant, which was approved. That funding helped the group purchase supplies that make the experience better for everyone involved—instruments, tablets, speakers, and a setup that can flex to meet residents where they are.

It also allows for options: even if someone doesn’t want to be part of a big group activity, they can sit nearby and still enjoy the music.

What a visit looks like

When the students arrive, they bring energy—and a basket full of ways to participate.

They come with handheld instruments like egg shakers and maracas, offering them to residents or anyone who wants to join in. The group may play a prepared song live, or use a backing track through a speaker, creating an atmosphere that feels less like a performance and more like a shared experience.

At Windhaven, staff noticed right away how much residents appreciated being part of the music—not just listening to it.

“The residents really enjoyed the students, the music, and getting to participate with rhythm instruments.”
— Natalie Jones, Lead Leisure Services (Windhaven)

Residents shake along, clap along, sing along, or simply listen—while students interact, smile, and build real connection in the moment.

And when the session wrapped up, the reaction said it all.

“When they left, the residents said they wished they stayed longer and can't wait until they come again.”
— Natalie Jones

The current plan

Harmony for Health is currently planned as a once-a-month program, alternating locations to reach more residents across campus. One month at Windhaven, the next Thalman Square.

This rotating schedule helps the group build consistency while bringing music to multiple neighborhoods at Western Home.

At Thalman Square, the group’s impact wasn’t only about the songs—it was also about the relationships being formed.

“They enjoyed the music, instruments, but I think they really enjoyed having the students interested in spending time with them.”
— Hollie Beam, CTRS & Leisure Coordinator (Thalman Square)

For residents, that intergenerational connection can be just as meaningful as the music itself.

“It was just so much fun to see them having fun, too.”
— Susan Christman, resident

Looking ahead: hopes to grow

While the program is starting monthly, Andrew hopes Harmony for Health can become even more frequent in the future.

“As soon as we get things rolling… we can start doing it hopefully weekly every Tuesday,” he says. “As many times as you guys will have us, we love doing this.”

He also hopes the program continues to expand—more students joining, more instruments, and maybe even a small band that residents recognize and look forward to seeing.

A community effort powered by students

Harmony for Health students (left to right): Logan Backes, Chloe Bolthouse, Anna Frohling, Andrew Goetsch, Jude Corkery, and Adrian Rusch.

Harmony for Health is a Cedar Falls High School program backed and supported by the CFHS Leo’s Club. Andrew shared that the group has about twelve members, with additional students from band and orchestra interested in joining future visits.

Why it matters

Programs like Harmony for Health remind us that connection doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes it looks like a student handing a resident a maraca. Sometimes it sounds like a familiar melody. And sometimes, it feels like a light turning on—one smile at a time.

At Western Home Communities, we’re grateful for students like Andrew and his group for sharing their gifts, their time, and their heart with our residents.

We can’t wait to see (and hear) what Harmony for Health brings next.

Music, Memory, and Meaning