EVERY Wednesday, Victoria Point’s Costa Cristy plays all his favourite tunes to the residents of the Redland Hospital Residential Care facility.
It started 11 years ago when a friend of Costa’s was admitted to this long-stay care accommodation and the habit became entrenched.
Costa, 77, plays Spanish guitar, finger style, and is happy to entertain the residents in the dining room for several hours a week.
“I get lots of compliments. It’s nice to see how music can make someone’s day a little better,” he said.
“I also get to play what I like to play. It keeps my mind and my fingers fit.”
Costa has recently extended his audience, now playing on Tuesday mornings in the main hospital foyer.
“I just play some nice music and people respond. That’s the best. I love it,” he said.
Costa has only known music, having worked as a professional performer all of his working life. Regular gigs were at Sharks Sporting Club at Victoria Point and the bowls clubs at Victoria Point and Cleveland.
Costa learned to play by ear after acquiring a guitar in 1962 and since then has immersed himself in different musical genres from around the world.
“I started in bands in 1964, and played until I retired. It’s been a satisfying life,” he said.
“Music has always fulfilled my emotional needs. I like to explore styles from all over – Brazilian, country, you name it.”
He said he and his wife Helen used to work as a duo, with Helen on vocals.
“Now it is just me on the guitar – no singing, just finger picking in true, Spanish style,” he said.
“When I can give someone a lift, that gives me a lift and makes me smile.”
Redland Hospital media and communications officer Emma Parnell said Costa’s playing offered a moment of calm to patients, visitors and staff at the hospital.
Costa has five children and two grandchildren, and he said two of his children “fiddled” with the electric guitar.
“I have a big family. This way, I can stay out of their way!” Costa said.
