Tuning in to good health with a side of Beethoven

Jasper Yung, DO, hadn’t played a violin in 18 years when his brother encouraged him to join the Detroit Medical Orchestra.

“I wasn’t sure how well I would play after such a long break, but surprisingly, it all came back to me,” says Dr. Yung, who joined the orchestra three years ago. “Being part of the orchestra has been a great opportunity to give back to my community while reconnecting with music.”

Featuring more than 70 physicians, medical students and other health care professionals, the Detroit Medical Orchestra’s mission of “Bringing Healing Through Music” is realized through free symphonic performances in the heart of downtown Detroit.

Healing through music

Recently, the orchestra made a special appearance at the Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital in Michigan as part of the hospital’s healing arts program. The program helps create a serene environment for patients through artwork and performances. Dr. Yung, who practices emergency and internal medicine at the hospital, facilitated the collaboration upon learning the hospital was looking to share music with its patients.

“The patients really loved the concert. It enabled them to see that healing is a multifaceted process beyond medical procedures,” Dr. Yung says.

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Studies have found that listening to classical music can impact one’s emotional well-being, reduce stress and improve health conditions such as pain and insomnia. As a performer, Dr. Yung has experienced some of these health benefits himself.

“After going through a rough day in the emergency room seeing death and injury, playing the violin helps balance my soul and renew my spirit. It’s like meditation,” Dr. Yung says. “Being in the orchestra also shows patients that we all have hobbies, which is important for work-life balance.”

Supporting the cause

Public donations and support enable the Detroit Medical Orchestra to provide free concerts while covering operational expenses, including venue fees, sheet music and instrument rental.

The orchestra also gives back to the community by collecting donations for Detroit-based health and community initiatives at their concerts.