Medical musicians serenade Soldiers

Photo by Patricia McAllister

VA-National Medical Musical Group held a concert of patriotic and popular music Monday in the lobby of the Heaton Pavilion for patients, staff and visitors Monday.

During the concert, vocalist Karen Wright sang an acappella version of "Amazing Grace." The entire chorus concluded with the singing of "God Bless America."

Capt. Wayne McBride, from the Bureau of Medicine and Surgery, coordinated the visit and directed the performance.

VA-NMMG, a non-profit organization, is the largest medical musical group in America, with the membership of its chorus and orchestra spanning almost every state. Many are associated with the Department of Veterans Affairs, or with medical practice, teaching, or research. VA-NMMG has performaned around the world, including at Carnegie Hall, Kennedy Center and Constitution Hall, as well as for Congress, the United Nations, and at the White House.

VA-NMMG's mission is to perform "Music with a message" -- a message of inspiration, healing, and national unity. Their Web site is www.medicalmusical.org.