Meet Jonathan Vitale, Our Featured Volunteer from New York!

Get to know our volunteers!

What Virtual Program do you volunteer with? I volunteer for SelfHelp

How long have you been volunteering with Musicians On Call? I’ve been volunteering for one year now.

Are you a volunteer guide or musician? Musician

What is your favorite song to play for patients? Anything from the American Songbook

Which demographic do you love playing for and why? I love playing for elderly as they usually have a great appreciation for a solo vocalist performing with an acoustic piano. I also really enjoy interacting with this audience!

Do you have any livestreams or other performances coming up? I perform regularly on Instagram lives at @therealdrjonathan

What is your occupation outside of MOC? Family Physician

Do you have any hidden talents? Songwriting, podcasting, cooking

What is your story? What connects you with music and why do you volunteer with MOC? As a Family Physician, I’ve worked in hospitals and clinics with patients who have chronic or terminal illnesses. I always put myself in the shoes of a patient and imagine what I would want- live music performed at my bedside! Doctors want to help people- but there are so many ways to do that other than traditional medicine that are just as important. Live music makes people smile, feel good, and remember what life is all about. It takes them away from their illness, pain, and worries. I enjoy playing music that is hopeful and uplifting. My performances are an offering of my own love, joy, and zest for life. And best of all — it has no side effects!