Musician with Down syndrome and her mom bring music to Duke Hospital hallways
DURHAM, N.C. (WNCN) — Going to the hospital can be a stressful experience, but people walking through the halls of Duke Hospital often stop and smile when they hear music.
The musicians are a mother and daughter. Jenny Lowther plays the orchestra bells. Her mom, Nancy, plays the keyboard. “I started playing in middle school,” Jenny said, proudly.
But, pursuing her passion for music hasn’t always been easy for Jenny.
“From the time she was little, it was really challenging to get teachers and people to accept her and give her chances to do things,” Nancy explained.
States offer services for disabled kids, then make their families wait 10 years for them
Nancy has always worked to make sure her daughter’s Down syndrome doesn’t overshadow her talent and hard work.
“She’s very determined to do what she wants,” she noted. “She’ll stick to it. She’ll work for it.”
Duke Hospital’s Musician In Residence, William Dawson, has seen that determination.
“I wish every musician on my team was as reliable as Jenny,” he said. “I hired Jenny and Nancy because they play extremely charming music and they’re super easy to work with.”
Jenny and Nancy play every Wednesday from 12:30-2:30 p.m. for the 800 people an hour who walk down the hospital hallway.
Carlee Jones, the coordinator of the Cleft and Craniofacial Program, often stops to listen and say hello. She loves hearing the music.
“They make everybody happy,” she said. “You forget you’re at a hospital.”
North Carolina artist showing world her talents
The Lowthers hope people enjoy hearing their music as much as they enjoy playing it.
“She’s helped me fulfill my dreams and hopefully I’m helping her to fulfill her dreams,” Nancy said of her daughter.
They also hope they inspire others to pursue their own passions.
“Keep up with your dreams,” Jenny urged. “Keep on learning.”
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
