Brass Band Performance at Holmfirth Care Home Creates Memories

Ever heard a song and been instantly zipped back in time? Maybe to a school disco or a family holiday? It’s amazing how a bit of music can unlock a flood of memories. And on 18 September 2025, that’s exactly what happened at a care home in Holmfirth. The residents at HC-One’s Greenacres Care Home were treated to an afternoon that was about so much more than just a performance; it was about bringing memories to life through the powerful sound of a traditional brass band.

A request that hit the right note

This whole thing didn’t just happen out of the blue. It started with a simple chat. Back in July, during a meeting where residents and their families get together to share ideas, someone mentioned how lovely it would be to hear a live brass band again. It’s the kind of suggestion that could easily be forgotten, but not at Greenacres. Claire Wilson, the Lifestyle Manager, heard the request and got straight to work. A Lifestyle Manager’s job is basically to make a care home feel like, well, a home. They organise activities and events that people will actually enjoy, making sure life is interesting and fun. And Claire was determined to make this brass band dream a reality.

More than just a concert

So, the day arrived, and the brilliant Lindley Community Brass Band turned up, instruments polished and ready to go. The home was buzzing with excitement. Residents gathered for the special performance, and to make it a proper social occasion, there was cheese and wine for everyone to enjoy. It was the perfect setup for a fantastic afternoon. For many people living at the Greenacres care home, the sound of a brass band isn't just music; it's the soundtrack to their lives. Yorkshire has a massive history with brass bands, often linked to local mines and factories. So, for some, the performance brought back memories of playing in a band themselves, while for others, it was a reminder of community events and concerts they’d attended over the years. This event perfectly captured that brilliant sense of community spirit.

The power of personal memories

For one resident, the music sparked some particularly powerful memories. A gentleman named George Marsden was deeply moved by the performance. You see, in his younger years, George used to play the organ at the famous Huddersfield Town Hall, often supporting brass band concerts. Hearing those familiar sounds again must have been incredibly special, bringing back the feeling of being part of those grand musical events. It’s moments like these that show the real impact of thoughtful adult social care. It’s about connecting people with their own personal histories and the things they love. As Lifestyle Manager Claire Wilson said:

“It was wonderful to see our residents’ faces light up during the performance. Music has such a powerful way of sparking memories and bringing people together, and it was a privilege to make this special request happen for them.”

Address: Greenacres Care Home, Huddersfield Road, Meltham, Holmfirth, HD9 4AG