On a sunny day at Almond Heights Senior Living in Orangevale, live music echoed through the halls. Around 30 seniors filled the room, enjoying treats and beverages as they clapped, swayed, and sang along to beloved classics.
This uplifting scene is just one example of the Folsom Concert Association’s (FCA) commitment to enriching lives through music!
Over the last 30 years, the FCA has presented one of the Sacramento area’s most reasonably priced concert series. As a nonprofit, every dollar goes back to bringing musicians to seniors, providing college scholarships to high school seniors, and refurbishing donated instruments for students and schools in need.
Thousands of seniors live in residential, memory care, and independent senior living communities throughout our region. Over the years, the FCA has watched many of its concert-goers transition and become unable to attend live performances. They decided to bring student and professional musicians to these communities, especially those with a limited budget for musical performances.
“It’s spirit-lifting,” said Bimpe Ekundare, Director of Wellness Programming at Almond Heights. “This is something our residents look forward to regularly.” Resident Richard added, “I come out every time the musicians are here, and I always dance at least a couple of times!”
FCA’s Outreach Coordinator, Duane “DP” Maracin, is the heart of the program’s success. A lifelong musician, his journey highlights music’s ability to connect people across generations.
Growing up in a family that often harmonized to old standards, Maracin found inspiration in watching his father play a Harmony archtop guitar. At age 10, his parents gifted him an $8 Sears guitar, which was all they could afford, igniting his passion. The following Christmas, his father surprised him with the Harmony guitar he had long admired—a moment that cemented his love for playing.
After losing his wife, Maracin’s children encouraged him to play at open mic nights. His first performance to a younger crowd of the classic “Danny Boy” earned a standing ovation. Energized by the experience, he formed a band and began performing locally.
This exposure eventually led to a recommendation from FCA’s prior outreach coordinator, who suggested that DP take the role. Since joining FCA, Maracin has expanded the program, built a network of talented musicians, and brought joy to countless seniors through music.
“Performing for seniors is very fulfilling. I sometimes can’t get through the words; it’s like singing to my folks even though I’m now as old as my parents were,” said DP. “It also gives me an opportunity to maintain my skills on the guitar and keep my voice.”
As we head into a new year, the FCA aims to raise $10,000 to support seniors and students through its programs! Plus, tickets to our upcoming concerts make the perfect local holiday gift! Visit FolsomConcertAssociation.org to learn more.