Mary Coughlan was among the musicians providing live performances to clients, patients, service users and staff in HSE and related services in Wexford in recent weeks.  The Mobile Music Machine have been familiar visitors to HSE/South East Community Healthcare older persons, disabilities and mental health care facilities throughout the South East over the last two years with their live arts project known as “Covid Care” concerts. Led by classical music quartet founded and led by cello soloist, chamber and orchestral musician Gerald Peregrine, the project also involves playing with special guests.

In this latest series in Co. Wexford (made possible with the support of Creative Ireland, the National Lottery and the Blackwater Valley Opera Festival), Gerald was joined by violinist Lynda O’ Connor, Dermot Dunne on accordion, renowned blues, jazz and Irish soul singer Mary Coughlan and (on guitar and vocals) by Professor of Biochemistry and Immunology at TCD Luke O’ Neill.

Among the venues to enjoy the musical visits in recent weeks were Selskar (a residential care centre for Psychiatry of Later Life at Farnogue Community Nursing Unit, Wexford) and the Westlands (in Wexford) and Tús Nua (in Enniscorthy) rehabilitation units. The Westlands gathering was facilitated at the Wexford Arts Centre.

Dr. Denise Rodgers (Clinical Psychologist with Wexford mental health services, HSE/South East Community Healthcare) said everyone was delighted with the events: “Staff, service users and their families have faced enormous challenges over the last two years. The Covid Care concerts were developed as a project to bring classical music into the lives of vulnerable members of society and those most affected by the impact of the pandemic.

“It was wonderful, on this occasion, to welcome Prof. Luke O’ Neill on site to help everyone smile! Along with Mary Coughlan, Gerald, Lynda and Dermot they brought great joy and we look forward to further opportunities for such therapeutic activity.”