Penn State Health Hershey Medical Center and College of Medicine
JAMS (Just Atmospheric Music by Students) Volunteer Program
Hello! My name is Selina Lin, and I am excited to introduce the JAMS Volunteer Program. Teaming up with Penn State Center Stage Arts in Health, I began this initiative to provide high school students with a unique opportunity to share their music while bettering the lives of the hospital community.
As a recent graduate of Hershey High School and a current student at Penn State, University Park, I was inspired to start JAMS because of my passions for both music and healthcare. My journey with music began in 1st grade when my parents signed me up for piano lessons. From practicing for recitals to playing for fun, my appreciation for the piano has gradually increased over the years. I continue to be inspired by the special power of music to influence one’s mood and mental health. Simultaneously, my interest in health care began with my mom, who has always emphasized the importance of physical and emotional well-being. My fascination with science, which I explored through activities like Science Olympiad, has also solidified my interest in healthcare.
Through this program, I hope to encourage young musicians to continue honing their craft while making a meaningful impact on the community. By sharing our music, we aspire to touch the lives of those who listen and bring a bit of joy and comfort to their day.
Objective
JAMS aims to create a relaxing and uplifting environment for patients, families, and staff. We always hope our music can reach one or many people and make their day a little brighter. Musicians in this program concentrate on serving their audience by fostering a warm and compassionate presence. Music has been proven to reduce the stress of its listeners and offer a distraction from their immediate concerns. By witnessing the impact that music can have on people, we hope that young musicians’ passion for music will continue to grow.
Qualifications for Volunteers
JAMS is seeking skilled young musicians who wish to use their gifts to positively influence the lives of people in our hospital community!
We welcome all styles and genres that are positive and uplifting. Volunteers should stay attentive to their environment, changing volume and/or intensity to fit the listener’s mood, reaction to the music, age, title, etc. We are always available to provide guidance in this area.
Qualifications:
- Age. Musicians should be in high school.
- Ability to perform with background noise and distractions.
- Mastery of instrument. Musicians must be able to play their instruments comfortably and with few to no mistakes.
- Comfortable with interacting with new people and all types of patients.
- Sensitivity to patient experience and needs.
- Ability to observe the age, moods, and reactions of the listeners and, if necessary, adjust the style and/or tempo of the piece while performing.
Preferred Instruments:
Piano
Violin
Viola
Guitar
Harp
Cello
Hand Pans
Dulcimer
If you do not see your instrument listed but feel that your music could complement the program, please contact us.
Application Process
To be considered for this program, you should complete the following steps:
- Fill out the application form. Link to application form
- Record and email a short 1-2 minute video of you playing your instrument to syl5701@psu.edu. We prefer that you send your video as a link to a Google Drive or a YouTube video.
- Once you have completed the form and sent your video, you should receive an email to schedule a short interview.
- After being accepted into the program, you will be invited to attend an “Artist in Health” training session to learn about playing in a hospital setting. Once you have attended the health training session you will be able to continue to sign up for slots every month during JAMS Day.
Scheduling
JAMS Day will be held once per month starting in February 2025. During every JAMS Day, there will be four available time slots. Sign-ups are first-come first-serve!
After attending the “Artist in Health Training” session you should receive a link to sign up for time slots.
Repertoire
Aim to play for around 20 minutes.
Set-Details
Bring your instrument (unless you play piano), stand, and music. Tuning that takes longer than a minute or so should be done before arriving for your shift.
Contact Us
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact syl5701@psu.edu. We hope that you will consider becoming one of our volunteers!
