Eleanor Meynell
About Me
I am passionate about using my musical skills to bring joy to those in need. I have always been interested in how music effects the brain and especially how it effects the brain and dementia. The benefits of music for Alzheimers and dementia are enormous and have received a great deal of exposure in the media in the past 5-10 years. I keep up-to-date with the latest discoveries in music and dementia in the news, scientific research in specialist journals, literature and CPD courses and I have regular supervision with Alice Hardy, Senior Music Therapist at Royal Hospital for Neuro-disability.
BMus | King’s College, London
LGSM | piano performance, Guildhall School of Music and Drama
ARCM | piano performance, Royal College of Music
Early Years Music Pedagogy | Roehampton University & British Kodály Academy
Safeguarding Level 3 | British Association of Music Therapists
Dementia and the Arts: Sharing Practice, Developing Understanding and Enhancing Lives | UCL
Qualifications
My Expertise
Instruments
I am an award-winning concert pianist. I am also an opera singer and have sung on many opera stages around the world, on BBC radio & TV. My emphasis is on singing groups because words to well-known songs create well-being and stimulate memories, cognitive function and speech. Our musicians have our own specialist instruments ranging from guitar, cello and piano to Tibetan singing bowls. We use a variety of percussion instruments that patients can hold and play, for example, tambourines, drums, wooden blocks etc. We use to gain a sense of agency in creating music and dementia patients are encouraged to play the keyboard or guitar. See Fred's story.
Groups and individuals
I am able to manage large groups and create and sustain a positive group dynamic. I build positive connections between people and can motivate and inspire care staff. I am expert at creating an instant rapport, facilitating positive connections between staff and residents. See Hayley's story.
Variety and styles of music
I use a wide variety of musical styles and draw on many different genres of music to find out what clicks with an individual. For example, hymns, childrens’ songs, boogie woogie, rock and roll, classical and folk. See Michael's story.
Adaptability
I am sensitive about care home schedule and adapt the music theraputic activities around this. We agree together what time of day and which room will suit your home best. I can advise on choosing the best space and the layout of the room for the maximum benefit to residents. As the needs of dementia patients are infinitely varied, no two music sessions are ever the same. I am very adaptable to any strong moods on that day and tailor the music and pace while always maintaining a positive atmosphere. See Jane's story.
End of life
People with advanced dementia can hear music and I am experienced at using specific songs for end of life dementia patients and their close relatives. From my extensive experience of working with all stages of dementia, I am able to respond sensitively to the often strong emotions created by music. My personal strength is my empathic approach and I can use specific songs to alleviate aggression or relieve feelings of despair. See Jill's story
FAQs
1. Can music improve a care home’s CQC rating?
Yes, music provision is one of the key indicators of quality care that the CQC are looking for. “9/10 of care homes which receive a Good or Outstanding CQC rating had music included” Source Music for Dementia. “This is much more than simply entertainment. If done well, live music can help care homes achieve all the key indicators of quality person-centred provision that CQC inspectors are looking for.” Andrea Sutcliffe, former Chief Inspector at the Care Quality Commission
2. How often should you have music for people with dementia?
Dementia patients need regular music as part of their daily lives - their communication with the outside world often depends on it. It is a necessity, not a luxury.
3. Is it safe?
All musicians working for Eleanor Music Services have an enhanced DBS, a public liability certificate and hold a Safeguarding Level 2 or above. We provide these for you at the start of each contract for you to keep on file. All musicians working for Eleanor Music Services are highly experienced and specialise in working with dementia patients. Our musicians are chosen for their experience, sensitivity, maturity and empathy as well as their proficiency in musical skills. Musicians are contracted to Eleanor Music Services CIC and committed to comply with our Safeguarding and Privacy policies. They receive an induction on our risk assessments and conduct. Eleanor Music Services CIC is a member of the ICO
Music is very powerful and evokes strong emotions. While it is a good to have an outlet for emotions, if a particular song or something else causes distress, we will cease that activity immediately. If neccessary, and only in rare cases, it may be better for a resident to leave the activity.
4. What happens in a group music session?
The regular musician arrives in good time to set up their instrument/s. The activity co-ordinator will be present and a minimum of 2 care staff. This is to help encourage residents to join in and with personal comfort. The musician greets everyone individually by name, then begins with a song that everyone will know. All songs are introduced and conversation with individuals about their lives is encouraged. The musician finishes with a positive song that everyone will know. While we recognise the pressures on care staff, we need them to remain in the room while the musician is working in case of falls and personal care, as our musicians are not responsible for the personal safety of residents.
5. Does music benefit staff too?
Absolutely! Music is uplifting and a morale boost for staff who feel stress-relief, and can ‘let go’. Residents enjoy seeing staff dancing, relaxing and laughing. Having music in the care home simply makes the place feel like a real home. Responses favourite and meaningful songs are dramatic and always surprise care staff. This deepens respect and strengthens a sense of connection.
Staff are inspired to create musical events in the home themselves. “I just wanted to say I thoroughly enjoyed the session today. I’ve never had so much fun in my life, thank you” Kat, care staff