Finding Harmony: Meet Jake Rivers, Gilchrist’s New Music Therapist
Music has a way of reaching us when words cannot. For patients on hospice, music can soothe anxiety, unlock memories, and bring comfort to families during tender moments. At Gilchrist, our music therapy program has long provided these gifts to patients across our service areas. Now, with the addition of Jacob “Jake” Rivers, The Lifecare Institute—Gilchrist’s partnership with Luminis Health—is expanding music therapy into Anne Arundel and Prince George’s counties.
“I have the opportunity to help shape and grow the music therapy program in this region,” Jake says. “It’s exciting to build something new that will reach more patients and families and bring them the comfort and connection that music can provide.”
The Benefits of Music Therapy
Gilchrist’s music therapy program is an integral part of our holistic approach to care. Board-certified music therapists use live music—through singing, playing instruments, and improvisation—to address the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of patients and their loved ones.
For some, music eases pain or reduces agitation. For others, it sparks memories, encourages self-expression, or provides moments of joy and connection. Family members often find comfort, too—joining in songs, reminiscing, or simply experiencing peace together. Whether it’s calming a patient in distress or helping a family share a meaningful moment, music therapy offers a unique kind of healing that words alone cannot provide.
From Cello to Hospice Care
Jake has been a board-certified music therapist for nearly five years, but music has been part of his life far longer. He first earned a degree in cello performance before returning to school for music therapy. During his training, he discovered his calling in hospice care.
“My final practicum was in hospice, and something just clicked,” Jake recalls. “I realized this is where I wanted to be. Music could bring peace, connection, and even joy to people at the end of life. It just felt right.” Since then, Jake has dedicated his career to hospice music therapy, working first for a different organization before joining Gilchrist in 2025.
Why Gilchrist?
For Jake, the decision to join Gilchrist came down to values. “I’d heard from colleagues about the quality of care here,” he explains. “The fact that Gilchrist is a nonprofit makes a big difference. There’s a real priority on helping people however we can—even when families are facing financial hardship. That’s something I hadn’t seen anywhere else, and it was important to me to be part of that mission.”
Instruments of Connection
Like many music therapists, Jake brings several instruments to his sessions, but he’s especially known for his unique ukulele—a resonator model made of metal that projects a fuller, richer sound. “It gives me a lot of range to work with clinically,” he says. “And patients are always intrigued when they see it.”
In addition, Jake has already had more opportunities at Gilchrist to play his first love—the cello. “Patients respond so positively to it,” he says. “It’s exciting to bring that part of myself into my work.”
Advice for Future Music Therapists
Jake also has words of encouragement for students or professionals considering hospice music therapy. “It’s important to understand what hospice really is,” he says. “Yes, hospice supports people who are nearing the final stage of life, but there’s also so much joy, laughter, and tender moments. Music allows us to connect with people in such a unique way, and being part of those experiences is a privilege. Staying connected to your passion and remembering the impact you’re making can make this work incredibly fulfilling.”
Looking Ahead
Jake is grateful to be part of Gilchrist and looks forward to what’s ahead. “Everything I’ve seen so far here has been so supportive and inspiring,” he says. “I’m excited to keep growing as a clinician and to share music with more patients and families.”
Through music therapy, Gilchrist helps patients find comfort, families find connection, and moments of peace shine through even during life’s most difficult times. With Jake joining the team, that healing harmony will continue to reach even more lives.