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Musical Rounds: A multisite, mixed-methods feasibility study of a musical legacy session in palliative care
Melanie Ambler1, Mukta Awasthi1,2, Lynn Gerber1,3
1School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
Palliative & Supportive Care
|May 7, 2026
Summary
Musical Rounds, a music medicine program, significantly reduced pain, stress, and anxiety while improving comfort for patients with life-limiting illnesses and their loved ones. This feasibility study highlights music medicine
Area of Science:
- Palliative Care
- Music Medicine
- Psychosocial Support
Background:
- Patients with life-limiting illnesses and their families often experience significant emotional distress, including anxiety, stress, and pain.
- Legacy building through personalized interventions like storytelling and music may offer comfort and alleviate emotional strain.
- Existing music medicine programs show promise, but a tailored approach for palliative care patients and their loved ones is needed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the feasibility and potential benefits of the Musical Rounds program.
- To assess the impact of a novel music medicine intervention on distress and legacy building for palliative care patients and their loved ones.
- To explore patient and loved one experiences with personalized music and storytelling at the bedside.
Main Methods:
- A multisite, mixed-methods, pre-post feasibility study involving 3 hospitals.
- Participants engaged in bedside recording sessions combining personal stories with live musical improvisation.
- Standardized scales measured pain, stress, anxiety, and comfort pre- and post-session; qualitative analysis assessed mood changes.
Main Results:
- Patients (n=79) reported significant reductions in pain, stress, and anxiety, alongside increased comfort (p < .001).
- Loved ones (n=42) also experienced significant decreases in stress and anxiety, with improved comfort (p < .004).
- Perceived mood improvement was reported by 59% of patients and 68% of loved ones.
Conclusions:
- The Musical Rounds program is feasible and associated with reduced distress and enhanced comfort for palliative care patients and their families.
- Personalized music medicine interventions show potential for supporting legacy building and improving psychosocial well-being in end-of-life care.
- Further controlled studies are recommended to confirm the efficacy of music medicine in palliative care settings.
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