Musician duo performs free concert for veterans in Rhode Island
The talented duo works with the Aurea Ensemble: a local group using music and the spoken word to bring people together. (WJAR)
BRISTOL, R.I. (WJAR) — It was music to the ears this week at the Rhode Island Veterans Home in Bristol.
“I love music," said Robert Nordstrom.
The U.S. Navy veteran sat and listened as songs written by Mozart played by two visiting musicians.
“I’ve heard a lot of classical music," said Nordstrom.
Robert Nordstro, a U.S. Navy veteran, sat and listened as songs written by Mozart played by two visiting musicians. (WJAR)
For Nordstrom, it was a familiar sound.
“My wife taught violin and piano at home. I had four kids that play the violin," said Nordstrom.
He himself played the harmonica for seven decades, he said, but now he listens to the sounds of a violin and a viola among his fellow residents and service members like 94-year-old George Cottrell Junior.
“I love comforting music. Peace," said Cottrell.
Cottrell said he had seen a lot of conflict, serving in combat for both the Korean and Vietnam wars.
“Life is short," said Cottrell.
“For us, it’s very special to be here," said violinist Alexey Shabalin.
The talented duo works with the Aurea Ensemble: a local group using music and the spoken word to bring people together.
They hope to expand community arts programming in Rhode Island to support the social and emotional health of our aging veterans.
“The point is to uplift them. To give them joy!” said violist and artistic director for Aurea Consuelo Sherba.
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Navy Veteran Francis Jalette said his favorite music genre had more twang.
“I like country music," said Jalette.
No matter what music it is, everyone agreed. The songs were as sweet as the comradery in the room.
“We have so much in common, so we enjoy it very much!” said Jalette.
Nordstrom had a front row seat to history, and now to the string performance at the veterans home.
The 87-year-old said he will continue to listen to music as long as he can.
“I’ve been through a lot myself, but I hope I can stay around a little while and listen to music,” said Nordstrom.
This concert was one in a series of four free concerts for veterans at the home.
