‘Tis the season for live performances of festive holiday music.

Residents and family members at Grandview Terrace’s Health and Rehabilitation Center, and at the Colonnade’s Assisted Living and Memory Support Center, were recently treated to the melodic sounds of the Pirazzi String Quartet, featuring members of the Phoenix Symphony.

Participants enjoyed the music with some singing along, clapping and tapping their feet.

The musicians performed favorite holiday tunes thanks to underwriting from Sun Health Foundation. Studies have shown that music not only helps people feel happier; there are actual therapeutic benefits for those experiencing health conditions including memory loss.

In addition to playing beautiful music, the musicians shared fun facts about themselves, their instruments and how the classic songs we love originated, including that “White Christmas” was written in Phoenix by the pool at The Biltmore.

The quartet particularly enjoys playing to audiences with cognitive issues.

“Sun Health Foundation is exceptionally proud to have brought these performances to our Sun Health Community campuses as well as to inpatients in the SAGE behavioral health unit at Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center,” said Gina W. Ore, chief philanthropy officer. “All to propel our Vision to empower people to enjoy living longer. Along with the gift of philanthropy, the gift of music is among life’s greatest and most transformative.”