From Beethoven to Joplin, music could be heard through the halls of the University of Tennessee Medical Center’s Cancer Institute on Thursday, May 19, 2005. A string quartet played soothing and toe tapping music for patients and staff in the waiting room and chemotherapy room at the Cancer Institute.

“Eclectic 4” is one of several quartets that traveled to various healthcare facilities during the week of May 16 - 19 as part of the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra’s (KSO) newest campaign, “Music and Wellness.” The campaign reaches out to local healthcare facilities and offers professional performances for patients, their families and staff.

Spearheaded by Music Director Lucas Richman, Music and Wellness is a way for KSO to connect with the healthcare community. “It is acknowledged by those involved in these programs that incorporating music into the healing process uplifts the spirit of the patients and by doing so accelerates the recovery period,” said Richman.

The Eclectic 4 is made up of KSO members from various countries including Violinist Eric Klein, Violinist Yin Wu, Violist Sara Cho and Cellist Ildar Khuziakhmetov. The group wished patients a fast recovery and hoped that the music would soothe them and help them get through their day. “Each of us has spent our whole lives as musicians. We really enjoy playing for you,” said Eric Klein, violinist, before breaking into some Irish fiddling.

The Music and Wellness program began on May 16 at University of Tennessee Alumni Hall where musicians gathered to record Richman’s original composition, “We Share a Bond.” The song was written as a tribute to breast cancer survivors. The recording was funded by the Susan G. Komen Foundation Race for the Cure in Knoxville.

Established in 1935 and currently under Richman’s direction, the KSO is recognized as one of the finest orchestras in the country. The KSO is comprised of 84 virtuoso musicians that reach East Tennessee audiences of all ages through musical performance and education programs. KSO performs more than 250 times each year to more than 160,000 people at various venues including Tennessee and Bijou Theatres, Civic Auditorium, school classrooms, nursing homes, city parks, churches and now hospitals.

The Cancer Institute at the University of Tennessee Medical Center provides advanced technology and highly skilled healthcare professionals to guide patients through the various steps of care. From early detection through treatment, experienced medical staff is available to provide patient-centered care to help patients battle with cancer.