A perfect duet

Thirty-five years ago, 89-year-old Esther Honens attended the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition in Texas, and was inspired to cultivate a world-class piano competition in her hometown of Calgary. In 1992, just five days before her passing, she attended the inaugural competition that she created at the Jack Singer Concert Hall.

Since its inception, Esther’s legacy has lived on through the Honens International Piano Competition which has evolved into a world-class event, and a home for aspiring musicians.

United Active Living is proud to partner with Honens, not only to support the developing artists in our local music landscape, but to also offer residents opportunities to attend performances, support the artists, and experience in-community concerts featuring Honens alumni within our communities. 

Memories, amplified

Entertainment aside, United’s robust music programming is more meaningful than you might think. Music is so much more than just background noise or a catchy tune, it’s the soundtrack of our lives. From learning basic scales and simple songs as a young child and teenagers experimenting with friends in their garage, to the first dance at your wedding, chances are you can pinpoint exactly where you were when that one song resonated with you deep to your core.

And those memories stick. Research has shown that people experiencing memory loss can still vividly recall music and lyrics, even when most other memories have given way to cognitive decline.

There are also several studies that have shown older adults benefit greatly from music therapy. From decreasing loneliness to improving memory, music at its best brings people together and creates community. From fan clubs to taking up an instrument — even something as simple as a tambourine, or singing with a choir — regardless of experience, music matters. Which is why meaningful partnerships with organizations like Honens bring so much vibrancy to United communities. 

‍The gift that keeps on giving

One of the things that makes this partnership so special and unique is the access it provides. Bringing world-class musicians directly into United communities removes barriers and creates opportunities to experience exceptional live performances in an intimate setting.

The relationship goes beyond simply hosting performances. The relationship goes beyond simply hosting performances. Residents have the opportunity to attend concerts by internationally renowned artists who come to Calgary as part of the annual Honens Festival.

“Our partnerships are always built around the interests and passions of our residents,” says Jill LaForty, United’s Music Director. “Honen’s is especially meaningful because the music resonates so deeply with the residents, some who are accomplished pianists themselves. Many more are lifelong music lovers, and patrons of the arts, so these performances often spark memories of concerts attended, lessons taken, and a lifetime spent appreciating music.”

“You can see the impact in the room,” Jill says. “The music inspires conversation, and creates moments of genuine connection.” Jill continues, “That connection helps residents remain engaged with the broader cultural community and reinforces that they are still very much a part of it. Music has an incredible ability to connect people across generations and experiences too. Through our partnerships with organizations like Honens, residents continue to enjoy meaningful artistic experiences that enrich their lives and strengthen their connection to the city they call home.”

As people age, sometimes they lose access to meaningful things they once enjoyed. Attending live performances can be difficult, restricted by lack of transportation, friends to accompany them, or even knowing how to purchase tickets. “I really love seeing live music,” says Katherine, a Garrison Green resident, “but I didn’t want to go by myself. Now that I’m here, I can head downstairs to the theatre here in the community, or sign up for the outings. It’s been great! I’m so happy I can see live music again. It’s very meaningful to me.”

Two voices, one purpose

"I love performing at United Active Living,” says Jon Kimura Parker, Artistic Director at Honens, “Their commitment to making the arts available up close and in person isn’t just great for their communities; it’s invigorating for the performers as well. These are concerts where I feel we are all in one big living room, and our conversations afterwards have been as uplifting and rewarding as the music. I have always believed that being a musician is about sharing beauty and meaning in a personal way, and United Active Living helps me do just that.”

No matter the size of the stage, when the music starts, the result is the same. Music brings us together, it spans generations, and it can transport us to a moment of time in a single beat. Those special connections are one of the key signatures of a vibrant community that builds harmony, together.

See how Honens and United are coming together in partnership to deliver truly remarkable experiences – and be sure to stop by our communities and see how we create connection, one note at a time.