Swapping his stethoscope for his Smith violin: Meet the GP bringing medicine and music to BaptistCare Yallambee

When Dr Guido Hanly finishes his rounds at BaptistCare Yallambee Aged Care home in Mundaring, WA, he has one more important thing to do before heading home.

Putting down his stethoscope, he reaches for his Smith violin and prepares to put on a show. 

When the COVID pandemic required aged care homes to impose visitor restrictions back in 2020, local GP Dr Guido Hanly was one of the few people from the community residents at Baptistcare Yallambee Residential Care in Mundaring got to see each week. 

Noticing that his patients were missing the social connection, fun and stimulation that visitors provide, the kindly doctor offered to bring his violin with him on his weekly rounds. 

At the end of consults, Dr Hanly would swap his stethoscope for the 1938 Smith violin given to him by his father and put on a recital for the appreciative seniors.  

His two older brothers were also gifted violins as children, but being the lucky last, Dr Hanly got the best one.  

The end of COVID restrictions saw the end of Dr Hanly’s wonderful performances, but the residents had become huge fans of the medico violinist and his playlist. 

So, it’s not surprising that when Yallambee started a Make a Wish program this year, the return of mini concerts by Dr Hanly was high on the list.  

Now, songs like Beethoven’s Spring Sonata and Jules Massenet’s Meditation echo once again through the halls of Yallambee, and residents are highly appreciative of Dr Hanly’s musical return.  

Dr Hanly, who has been playing the violin since age 4, says it’s a delight to bring a different type of medicine to Yallambee.   

“Music can be a huge boost to our emotional wellbeing, and opportunities like this create a special environment for residents to connect with one another and reminisce,” he said. 

BaptistCare Lifestyle Coordinator Meechelle Borg said they are grateful that Dr Hanly is willing to share his musical gifts with the seniors at Yallambee. 

“Our residents look forward to his monthly recitals and are in awe of his talent, 

“His performances unlock special memories for our seniors who used to play instruments, and it motivates them to continue with their passions,” said Meechelle.  

Dr Hanly’s monthly recitals are among the many wishes that the team at Yallambee have made come true.  

Some popular wishes include a trip to the beach, a brand new tattoo and a picnic at Lake Leschenaultia.