New 'Bedside Beats' Program Brings Music to Hospital Patients

Volunteers at Portsmouth Regional Hospital use vinyl records to brighten patients' spirits.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 8:16am

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A glowing neon outline of a vinyl record player and record, floating against a dark background, conceptually representing the therapeutic power of music in a healthcare setting.The 'Bedside Beats' program brings the healing power of music directly to hospital patients through a volunteer-run vinyl record player service.Portsmouth Today

A new program called 'Bedside Beats' has launched at Portsmouth Regional Hospital in New Hampshire, where volunteers bring a cart with a record player and vinyl records to patients' bedsides to play music and help lift their spirits. The director of volunteers, Amy Lester, says the program has already been a hit, as hearing is often the last sense to go, and the music helps communicate with even unconscious patients.

Why it matters

The 'Bedside Beats' program aims to improve the hospital experience for patients by providing a personal, comforting touch through the power of music. This type of therapeutic music program can have a positive impact on patient mood, relaxation, and overall well-being during what is often a stressful time.

The details

The 'Bedside Beats' program was launched just last month at Portsmouth Regional Hospital. Volunteers come equipped with a cart that has a record player and a selection of vinyl records. They visit patients' rooms and play music tailored to the individual's tastes in an effort to brighten their day and provide a soothing, familiar experience. Hospital staff have also been enjoying the musical offerings.

  • The 'Bedside Beats' program launched at Portsmouth Regional Hospital last month.

The players

Amy Lester

The director of volunteers at Portsmouth Regional Hospital, who oversees the 'Bedside Beats' program.

Portsmouth Regional Hospital

A hospital located in Portsmouth, New Hampshire that has implemented the 'Bedside Beats' program to bring music to patients.

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What they’re saying

“It has been such a hit, either unconscious or not conscious, you know, they say that the hearing is the last to go. And, you know, for our volunteers, that's important to know that you're not just sitting by somebody's side, but talk to them and communicate with them, play music from our bedside beats cart.”

— Amy Lester, Director of Volunteers

What’s next

The hospital plans to continue growing the 'Bedside Beats' program and expanding its collection of music to better serve patients.

The takeaway

The 'Bedside Beats' program at Portsmouth Regional Hospital demonstrates how simple acts of kindness, like bringing personalized music to patients, can have a meaningful impact on their hospital experience and overall well-being.