Projet Résonance brings residents and loved ones together through music

A couple danced together for the first time in years. One resident sang along to a Paul Anka song. Another rediscovered the joy of playing the piano. These are a few of the moments that residents and their loved ones have shared through Projet Résonance at the long-term care centres in Cowansville and Sutton.

The BMP Foundation contributed $16,000 to the project, which brings residents and their family caregivers together for music sessions. Participants can sing, move to the music at their own pace or play adapted instruments, whether seated or standing. Large-print lyrics make it easier for everyone to sing along.

The sessions give families a way to spend time together, even when conversation has become difficult. One caregiver said she felt close to her mother in a way she hadn’t felt in years. Another said she leaves each session feeling a little lighter and already looking forward to the next one.

In Cowansville, 25 residents have taken part in 10 sessions since January 2026. At the families’ request, the centre began offering two sessions a month in June. In Sutton, 13 residents have taken part in four sessions since May.

Companions can also attend with a resident. The project is now welcoming volunteers so that residents who have no family or rarely receive visitors can take part, too.

In the video below, Annie Arès, a recreation educator at the Cowansville long-term care centre, talks about Projet Résonance and the moments residents and their loved ones share through music.

Watch Annie’s video.