On a subject that nobody likes to talk about... the end of life of loved ones. I just discovered that most of my family members aren't familiar with Swan Songs - Austin, which surprises me, since so of my friends and I have been involved with "Swan Songs" for years.
It all began when my dear friend, Christine Albert was asked to sing for a friend who was at the end of life in 2005. The honor of being invited to sing at this powerful moment in someone's life was humbling and inspiring to her. So the idea was born to create an organization to act as a liaison between the healthcare and music communities, hence the non-profit "Swan Songs-Austin" was created. These intimate "musical last wishes" concerts are a blessing to both the family and the musicians. A favorite style of music is brought directly to the home or care facility and an intimate concert is held at no cost to the family. Committed to supporting live music in the community, "Swan Songs-Austin" compensates the musicians for each performance. I personally have donated a large painting to be sold at each annual "Swan Songs" fund raiser for many years and have created many slide shows for the event. "Swan Songs-Austin" is celebrating 20 years this year and has been such a blessing to our community.
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| From L-R - Craig Bentley, Jerry Don Motely, Sam Bentley, Debra Watson, Nathan Fajardo, Lynn Daniel, Christina Fajardo, Phillip Fajardo, Howard Kalish, Derek Hatley, Adriane Ethridge, and Nita Fajardo |
August 18, 2025
We had an amazing Swan Songs concert for Phillip in Round Round. Thank you Karen McElhatten, Howard Kalish, and Nita Fajardo for helping me pull this beautiful musical event together for our beloved brother. Thank you Adriane Ethridge for driving me half way to meet Nita on the journey. I love you all!
August 25, 2025
There are no words to express the feelings I have had recently with both my brother Phillip Fajardo and my friend Chris Gage in Hospice. Yesterday was a pivotal moment. Chris passed away and Phillip had a very rough night due to another dreaded brain bleed. Today it was hard to even move off of the couch. I found these photos from 15 years ago when we had a benefit for Phillip, the first time he was diagnosed with a brain tumor. The photos display how the Austin music community always come together for each other, offering pure love, light and the healing sound of music. Just remember we are all on this journey together. I'm sending so much love to everyone.
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