Music Medics: A Harmony Prescription for Healing
The official service program of the Barbershop Harmony Society
Bringing joyful, live barbershop harmony to those who need it most — one room, one voice, one smile at a time.
💡 What Is Music Medics?
Music Medics is a volunteer service initiative that brings barbershop ensembles into hospitals, especially children’s hospitals, senior centers, and veteran facilities. With familiar songs, cheerful uniforms, and heartfelt harmony, Music Medics lift spirits, ease loneliness, and deliver emotional care where words sometimes fall short.
Designed to be simple, adaptable, and deeply meaningful, Music Medics is your chapter’s opportunity to serve the community through the music we love most. Click here for more in-depth information.
“We’re not just singing — we’re connecting. We’re reminding people they’re not alone.”
— Music Medic, Ohio
Hear the Impact
“When your singers walked into my father's room, he hadn’t spoken in days. But then, he started humming. Then singing. I’ll never forget it.”
— Daughter of a memory care resident
“They lit up the children’s faces. The doctors said it was the most animated they'd seen them all week.”
— Pediatric nurse, Kansas City
“This is barbershop at its best — giving back through harmony.”
— Chorus Director, BHS Chapter
Start a Music Medics Program in Your Chapter
You don’t need a full chorus, years of experience, or complicated logistics. All it takes is a small group, a love of harmony, and a heart for service.
✅ What You’ll Need
A barbershop quartet or small group of singers
A relationship with a local care facility (start with a children’s hospital)
A cheerful, coordinated uniform (we recommend branded scrubs)
A few simple songs—memorized is best
📦 What We Provide
Free Music Medics Program Manual
Curated Music Packet with hospital-appropriate barbershop songs
Uniform Information and Ordering Links
Access to Grants through Harmony Foundation International
- Ongoing Support from BHS and other Medics groups
Volunteer Resources
Everything you need to get started—and keep going.
Questions?
Who can participate in Music Medics?
Music Medics is open to all barbershop singers—men’s, women’s, and mixed quartets and ensembles. You don’t need to be a contest-level singer. If you can sing in tune, hold your part, and care deeply about people, you’re more than qualified.
Do I need to memorize the music?
Memorization is encouraged but not required. Singing from a folder is perfectly acceptable, especially as you start out. What matters most is connecting with the audience, not perfection.
What kinds of songs do we sing?
Music Medics repertoire includes simple, uplifting barbershop songs that are appropriate for all ages—including familiar tunes that bring comfort, joy, and a sense of nostalgia. You’ll be given access to a curated music packet with arrangements selected specifically for hospital and care settings.
What kind of facilities can we visit?
Most groups start with children’s hospitals, senior living centers, memory care units, or rehabilitation facilities. Veterans Affairs are also good locations. Anywhere people need a little light and connection is a good place to serve.
How do we find a facility to partner with?
Start with relationships you may already have through chorus members, church communities, or local outreach programs. We also provide a Partnership Guide in the Music Medic Manual to help you introduce the Music Medics professionally and respectfully.
How should we dress?
Music Medics wear professionally branded scrubs that reflect joy and approachability. We’ll provide examples and links to recommended attire (e.g., solid color scrubs, branded polo shirts, or fun accessories).
Are there safety or background check requirements?
Yes. Many hospitals and senior facilities require some combination of:
Basic background check
Immunization record (flu, COVID, etc.)
On-site orientation or volunteer training
Each facility is different, so you’ll work with them directly to meet their standards. We recommend appointing a Music Medics coordinator for this.
Is there funding available?
Yes. Through our partnership with Harmony Foundation International, chapters can apply for grants to help offset costs for uniforms, music, and travel. Details are included in the starter kit and on the HFI page.
Do we have to be an official BHS chapter to participate?
Not necessarily. While most Music Medics groups are part of a chapter, any organized barbershop quartet or group of singers aligned with BHS values may participate. Reach out to us to discuss your situation.
Where can I find all the resources in one place?
All Music Medics materials are available on our homepage, including:
Program Manual (PDF)
Music Packet with learning tracks
Uniform guide
Facility outreach templates
Interest form
Grant application links
Who do I contact if I have questions or need help?
The BHS staff is here to support you. Reach out via the [Interest Form] or contact our Music Medics team directly at education@barbershop.org.