Music Strikes All the Right Chords for Lenbrook Residents
Music is often referred to as the soundtrack of our memories, and at Lenbrook, it’s a vital part of life. From world-class performances in the Event Center to off-site concerts at some of Atlanta’s most popular cultural venues, the soundtrack of Lenbrook reflects the many interests and talents of the residents.
Thanks to Lenbrook Friends of the Arts and the Enrichment Department, the Event Center often sounds like a premier concert hall. This year alone, Lenbrook welcomed internationally acclaimed artists such as pianist Robert Henry, violinist David Coucheron, the Vega String Quartet, jazz trumpeter Joe Gransden, cellist Jesús Castro-Balbi with pianist Gloria Lin, and a performance by the Atlanta Opera Studio Artists. Alongside these greats, young local favorites such as the Spivey Hall Children’s Chorus and the Johns Creek High School Orchestra have been featured. The UGA Redcoat Band even delivered a rousing performance.
Friends of the Arts Committee Chair Mary Jo Sibbald is proud to work on behalf of fellow Lenbrook Residents to secure several concerts from outstanding artists each month, as well as a bi-annual Resident’s Arts Festival. She says, “Our concerts and festival are rich, wonderful in-house experiences supported and attended by a very discerning audience, our residents!”
Along with appreciating great music, Lenbrook Residents create it themselves. Often during Wednesday Happy Hour, the grand piano keys come alive under the talented hands of Ralph Russell. A true highlight for the past three years has been a concert by both professionally trained and amateur residents of the Resident Piano Group. Established in 2022, this group was formed by Marilyn Prevor, Marjorie Sha, Yeewan Stevens, and Frederica Thames. All three performances to-date were attended by highly enthusiastic capacity audiences who immediately asked when the next one would take place.
“It is a great joy to share the beauty of music with our extended family of residents and to see how deeply they appreciate these performances,” says Resident Piano Group founding member Yeewan Stevens.
For those eager to explore Atlanta’s cultural landscape beyond Lenbrook’s halls, excursions abound to venues like Spivey Hall and Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. Residents also enjoy transportation to select Atlanta Symphony Orchestra performances and the Altana Opera performances, making it easy to stay connected to the city’s vibrant music scene.
Plato said, “Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and life to everything.” At Lenbrook, music brings people together. Whether it’s a professional string quartet, a college marching band, or a neighbor sharing a favorite song at the piano, these moments remind everyone that music has the power to strike chords of joy and connection.
