College student provides the sounds of music – Caleb Larson

Caleb Larson volunteers weekly playing the piano for residents of the Timbers of Shorewood. His audience is growing every week. One resident told Larson, “You’re the best we’ve ever had.” Larson doesn’t volunteer for accolades. His reason is simple. He hopes the residents enjoy the music. They do.

The oldest of ten children, he grew up in Minooka and was home schooled through high school. Larson is now a junior at Lewis University in Romeoville. His parents report that he started beating the drums at the tender age of two. He admits he loves rhythm.

“At the age of five, I was enrolled in piano lessons for five years, and I hated it,” Larson said. “Fortunately, my parents made me stick with it. I kept at the piano and added guitar and singing.”

On piano, Beethoven was his favorite until he became proficient with the music of the Polish pianist and composer Frédéric Chopin. He loves the emotion of Chopin.

Larson is also a fan of the South Korean pianist and composer Yiruma whose pieces are heavy in simple melody and rhythm, making them attractive to modern ears. Pattern and repetition feature prominently, however, making the structure more like popular pieces or movie themes than traditional solo piano compositions.

“I started college majoring in music then switched my major to economics,” he said. “I really like to help people, and I believe I can accomplish that better in business.”

Piano is strictly a hobby, and he joyfully shares it with the residents at The Timbers located at 1100 N River Rd, Shorewood.

“Caleb is a fantastic volunteer, an amazing musician, and he brings a lot of joy to our residents,” said Amy Odell, director of activities at the Timbers of Shorewood. “We know that music can stimulate memories in seniors and when it’s played live it’s so much better.”

About the Timbers of Shorewood

The Timbers of Shorewood Senior Living is a rental retirement community that provides senior independent living and assisted living apartments and a full schedule of activities and services. Residents whose needs may change are able to stay in the same place and receive appropriate and compassionate care. Furnished apartments are also available for short-term stays.

For more information about the Timbers call 815-609-0669.