I began playing for Heritage Harmonies about 20 years ago in response to a newspaper ad for a pianist for a seniors singing group at Barclay Manor. When I began, there were only about a half dozen members, the meetings were informal and I would pick through the music and lyrics left by previous pianists and improvise a set for the day. Eventually more people began to show up and I began preparing sets of music and lyrics stored in binders. When I left at the end of 2025, primarily because of health problems, I had completed 28 sets with close to 800 songs, ensuring members would never get bored singing a limited number of selections again and again.
Originally, I thought the purpose of these get-togethers was primarily for entertainment. But members would confide in me privately that the meetings meant much more to them; they represented a healing therapy for the pain and personal losses in their lives. For an hour they could sing, forget and feel refreshed afterwards.
I would encourage future leaders to keep this in mind when planning their approach to the group. Pick mainly material that most members know and can sing. It's when they sing, they most benefit. Give them an intro to each song that will remind them of the song, and set the tempo and key. And whenever possible, play the melody. It makes it easier for members to follow. In this way, the maximum number of members will actively participate and benefit. And you will be healing others in ways you may never know.
I'd like to thank all the members of Heritage Harmonies for the kindness and appreciation they expressed to me over the years. If I've made a positive difference in their lives, I'm happy, because they have certainly made a positive difference in mine.
Gratefully,
Frank Levin,