Legacy Senior Living Teams Up with Lee University to Bring Virtual Arts Learning to 250+ Seniors in 5 States

CLEVELAND, Tenn. (October 26, 2020) – In fulfilling the commitment to promote good health, mental stimulation and social engagement for its residents during the pandemic, Legacy Senior Living has teamed up with Lee University to enroll 250 seniors in a virtual arts learning program hosted by Artist-in-Residence Maestro Bob Bernhardt.

In weekly webinars streamed every Friday in October, Maestro Bernhardt, artist-in-residence at Lee University and Principal Pops Conductor of the Chattanooga Symphony Orchestra, explores and discusses pieces of music from the middle ages to the modern day and dives into how they can ignite emotions in listeners.

Titled “Pandemic Playlist,” these virtual classes feature Maestro Bernhardt talking about and playing excerpts from classical and film music that has helped him navigate these uncharted waters. Each online session features music of reflection, gratitude, joy, and triumph, music of all kinds that both soothes and enriches the spirit.

“Programs like this are much more than a leisure activity for our residents. This type of engagement is a very positive factor in promoting good health for seniors. The social and cognitive engagement help keep their minds working and staying sharp, which is of course essential in the aging process,” said Barry Ray, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Legacy Senior Living. 

Of the approximately 500 students enrolled in the Encore program this semester, 250 are residents of Legacy Senior Living’s family of communities across five Southeastern states. Legacy Senior Living has covered the $25 enrollment fee for each resident who wished to enroll. 

“Lee University has done an outstanding job of adapting to virtual programming during the COVID-19 pandemic, and we’re beyond grateful for the opportunity to provide our residents with this enriching experience in the arts,” said  Bryan Cook, Founder and President of Legacy Senior Living. 

Each student, including Legacy Senior Living enrollees, will have the opportunity to participate in a graduation ceremony in November to celebrate the knowledge gained throughout the course. 

PHOTO CAPTION: Legacy Village of Cleveland residents and Lee University engage through music with the online Encore program.

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