It’s important to go out into other communities, to create connections. When you go out into the community and do things like caroling, you feel good about what you are doing.
’Tis the season to spread light and joy, which is why earlier this month a group of Bridgewater State University students traveled to Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital in Plymouth where they sang holiday carols for elderly patients with cognitive impairments.
This was the third time music major Kai Morgan, ’25, has participated in the annual event run by BSU’s National Association for Music Education (NAFME) chapter.
“Music is so important to me, it’s nice to be able to share something I love with other people,” he said. “It always feels good to make people feel better, to brighten their day.”
Music Professor Sarah McQuarrie, who accompanies students on the piano, has organized the caroling event for the past 10 years.
“It’s such a team-building event,” she said. “It gets you into the holiday spirit, helps students get involved, and they get to meet different people and give back to the community. So many are trying to figure out and navigate the world right now...giving up your afternoon and making someone smile, it makes a difference.”
This year, students gathered to sing popular holiday favorites, including both secular and Christmas-themed carols, all intended to invoke a feeling of community.
This was the first year that BSU NAFME President Sofie Lopes, ’25, was able to lend her voice to the holiday proceedings.
“It’s important to go out into other communities, to create connections,” she said. “When you go out into the community and do things like caroling, you feel good about what you are doing.”
Post concert, the carolers made their way to Professor McQuarrie’s house where they shared a meal. Word on the street is, McQuarrie makes a delicious mac n’ cheese.
“She does,” Kai confirmed. “The food is always good, we are well fed. It’s a nice way to end the semester.”
Traditionally music majors and minors are the ones who sign up to carol, but McQuarrie said anyone who wants to participate is welcome.
“We encourage everyone to come,” she said, especially first-year students.
“Getting involved early on here at Bridgewater, you’re more likely to stay involved and complete that degree,” she said.
Sofie said, no matter what your major or the career you are pursuing, ultimately events like this help build stronger communities. She said to keep an eye out for future NAFME sponsored events this spring, like karaoke and game nights.
“You don’t have to have any musical talent or knowledge,” she said. “You can just sit there and have a good time.”
For more information about the BSU NAFME chapter visit @bsu.nafme on Instagram, the BSU Nafme Facebook page, or email BSUNAFMEOfficers@gmail.com
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