For many Cottage Homes residents, music has been more than entertainment – it has been a companion, passion, and source of joy across the years.
92-year-old Joan Baseby, pictured above and below with her ukulele, has been surrounded by music since childhood. Her father played piano for silent movies, and Joan herself studied piano from the age of seven, achieving her Associate in Music, Australia (AMusA). While she stepped back from classical piano at 19, her love of music never faded. Six years ago, through volunteering at the William Kibby VC Veterans’ Shed, Joan discovered the ukulele. Today she plays regularly with community groups, and her cheerful strumming is a welcome sound in the Glenelg community where she has lived for 16 years.
Ascot Park resident Charmaine, pictured at a piano, also discovered her gift early, able to play the keyboard by ear as a child. She played at her local church and still enjoys her beloved organ, purchased more than 40 years ago. “Playing nearly every day brings special memories of my childhood, of friends and family,” she says. “Music has always been my life.” The soft notes of her organ continue to bring comfort, joy and a strong connection to her past.
Mitcham resident Ron Doig, pictured performing with his guitar, pursued his boyhood dream later in life. In 2012, with guitar in hand and a gospel song co-written with his grandson Jonah, Ron took the stage at the Barmera Country Music Awards—and proudly took home second place. “It was so special,” Ron recalls. He still enjoys performing gospel songs that share hope, faith and connection with others.
At Prospect, Fred, pictured above and below at the Cottage Homes, has lived and breathed music for more than 40 years. An Adelaide-born entertainer, he has played at countless venues and once released a solo album titled Welcome to My World. He fondly remembers Adelaide’s vibrant live music scene and still loves to perform. Today, Fred entertains neighbours in the shared rec room with his guitar, creating moments of fun and connection.
From childhood memories to careers and new hobbies, music continues to enrich lives across Cottage Homes communities.
