MUSICAL SPIRIT
nspired by empirical evidence that shows music is beneficial to those suffering from loneliness, depression, various stages of dementia, and chronic in 2018 to offer free music programs to residents of assisted living facilities in the Boca Raton area. Coyne, who was chairman of the board for the Florida Philharmonic Orchestra and co-founder of The Symphonia Boca Raton, teamed up with co-founder Ilona Musil and Jeff Kaye, The Symphoniaâs artistic director and principal trumpet player, to begin organizing monthly concerts with professional musicians for residents at a local facility. The positive response from the attendees was immediate, and the program was even endorsed by a music therapist. When Coyne passed away in 2019, his son, Russell, took over the organization and is propelling it forward in honor of his dad. The turmoil related to COVID-19 has only intensified the need for healing music programs for seniors who face increased isolation. The concerts have moved to outside the assisted living facilities, but the amazing impact continues. Russell Coyne continues to raise funds to support his ongoing efforts, with the goal of eventually expanding his musical reach to areas beyond South Florida. ()
