A CARE home resident has organised a recital for friends and family following a long journey of speech and music therapy.

Originally trained as a classical singer, Kate Morgan had sung professionally and taught singing to a group of adults, The Clifton Singers, in the local area of Winchester until she had a stroke in 2011.

Following the serious stroke, with accompanying aphasia, Kate was put in touch with music therapist Owain Clarke, who has since been helping Kate get back to singing at Brendoncare Park Road in Winchester, and in the process, improving her speech.

Kate has been a resident at Brendoncare Park Road for eight years and has been practicing music and arts all her life. A short while ago, Kate said she’d like to sing again and perform for her fellow residents and other friends in Brendoncare, so she and Owain worked together to compile a programme of music for everyone to enjoy.

Their recent recital for soprano, guitar and harp included music and arrangements by Henry Purcell, Benjamin Britten and George Gershwin.

Residents and friends joined her for the performance and, afterwards, enjoyed a chat, homemade cake and tea. Kate was delighted with how it went and is already planning her next event!

Kate’s husband Philip is very proud of Kate’s drive and said: “With everything that has happened, Kate has not lost her determination to do all she can with what she’s got.”