Public health message set to song

Accompanying himself on the ukulele "Billy Connolly-style", Dr Sean MacPherson is well known for making up songs to help his medical students remember his lecture content.

Now, the University of Otago (Christchurch) Haematology Research Group clinical researcher and senior lecturer has composed a new waiata which encourages families to get vaccinated against Covid-19.

"Songs are a great way to share messages, and we have a great message here.

"I think we all want to do the right thing.

"Vaccinating against Covid-19 will help minimise the impacts of Covid-19 and reduce hospitalisation so we can continue caring for the people who truly need it the most."

University of Otago (Christchurch) Haematology Research Group clinical researcher Dr Sean...
University of Otago (Christchurch) Haematology Research Group clinical researcher Dr Sean MacPherson performs his new song which encourages families to get vaccinated against Covid-19. PHOTO: NEW ZEALAND ARMY BAND
Dr MacPherson collaborated with educator Morehu Solomon, the New Zealand Army Band and the Burnham Primary School kapa haka group to record the song, which was released last week.

Dr MacPherson said he had been a pianist since age 5, and also played the trombone, guitar and mandolin.

However, he chose to play a very special ukulele in the recording — an instrument handmade and given to him by University of Otago vice-chancellor Prof David Murdoch.

"It’s a gorgeous instrument, with a koa body as per the Hawaiian tradition, a beautiful paua inlay and an unusual craviola shape.

"My ukulele has featured in many public performances, mainly for medical education, but this is the first time it’s been used for a professional recording."

New Zealand Army Band music director Major Graham Hickman said he was pleased the band could play a part in sharing the vaccination message in a creative way.

-- john.lewis@odt.co.nz


 

 

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