Meet Matthew Ireland, Our Featured Volunteer from Boston!

Get to know our volunteers!

What Virtual Program do you volunteer with? I volunteer for Adult Virtual Programs

How long have you been volunteering with Musicians On Call? I’ve been volunteering for about 4 and a half years

Are you a volunteer guide or musician? Musician

What is your favorite song to play for patients? “My Girl” – It’s a classic and never fails to make people smile.

Which demographic do you love playing for and why? I’m happy to play for anyone, but I find that a lot of my repertoire probably appeals to adults and seniors.

Do you have any livestreams or other performances coming up? Not at this time. Last year I shared what I called “Quarantine Club” performances with friends. It’s been a little while, but I hope to get back to it soon.

What is your occupation outside of MOC? I’m a creative director in branding and marketing.

Do you have any hidden talents? I’m a solid 4-square player. My beat-boxing talents tend to annoy my sisters. I speak German. I play several instruments. I’m skilled at building or making things in a variety of creative mediums.

What is your story? What connects you with music and why do you volunteer with MOC? Music has always been a big thing for me. I discovered early on that I remembered melodies and lyrics really easily, and learned to harmonize singing along with the Everly Brothers, Eagles and Motown artists. I took up the guitar and songwriting in high school. I played with friends and out in clubs. I sang my children to sleep when they were young. And I still wake up with a different song in my head every morning. I love that.

Music is also one of the most authentic ways we connect as people. It’s visceral, it feels good, and helps us share life’s common experiences. That’s why I volunteer with MOC. I get the chance to brighten someone’s day by doing something I really enjoy. That’s quite a blessing. What an easy, natural way to show others you care. All you have to do is show up with a song and a smile.

MOC in the Big Apple 🌆

Join us as we continue to commemorate our 25th anniversary with our Anthems of Healing celebration to NYC! The night will highlight treasured songs and stories in MOC’s history and honor some of our great champions.

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