For more than 60 years, Wilsonville resident Frank Walsh wanted to play the cymbals. And this month, the 94-year-old former teacher’s wish came true.
The Vital Life Foundation — a charitable arm of the Consonus Healthcare and the Marquis Companies where Walsh lives — has a New Chapters program that allows seniors to accomplish their dreams and participate in activities that make them happier, healthier and more engaged in the community. Walsh’s wish was to play an instrument in a band and on Oct. 19, Walsh played the cymbals with Wilsonville High School’s pep band during the Wildcats football game against Wilson High School.
“It was great. I felt like I really was beginning to learn to play them,” Walsh said. “I’ve always wanted to play an instrument (and) in my mind that’s about the simplest one. It’s not complicated. It isn’t like a clarinet or a trombone.”