Musician Andres Felipe Palacios: Enriching Lives Through Harmony

In 2015, Springwell partnered with the Peabody Institute to create the Musician in Residence program. In exchange for room and board, Springwell hosts a student who treats residents to live music on a regular basis through performances and practice sessions.

The latest participant in this popular program is Andres Felipe Palacios, a guitarist and dedicated musician from Colombia who will be at Springwell through late spring of 2024. And the Springwell community couldn’t be luckier to have him.

Andres, a multifaceted musician, has a rich musical background. His journey encompasses experiences in Colombian Andean music, success in national competitions, and a profound connection with classical guitar.

Holding a Bachelor of Arts degree in guitar with cum laude distinction from the University of Antioquia in Colombia, Andres is currently pursuing a master’s degree in music at the Peabody Conservatory of the Johns Hopkins University. His musical prowess has earned him recognition as the Excellence in Music Leadership Fellow and Ambassador Scholar of the Latin Grammy Cultural Foundation.

In expressing his interest in the Musician in Residence program and his experience working with older adults, Andres emphasized his eagerness to bring joy to the residents through his craft. He highlighted the program's emphasis on intimacy, empathy, and connection between the musician, the music, and the audience.

Andres’s commitment to older adults predated his arrival at Springwell. During the height of the pandemic, he provided assistance to two older women, aiding them with daily activities and serenading them with his music. At Springwell, he continues to entertain—even visiting residents who are unable to leave their rooms.

As Andres embarks on this new chapter of his musical journey, he sees the opportunity to be the Musician in Residence at Springwell as invaluable for his career and a chance to make a meaningful impact through music. And our music-hungry residents couldn’t be happier to enjoy Andres and his beautiful music.

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