Sharing the Gift of Music: Meet Volunteer Delia Zielinski
At Hospice of Washington County, volunteers bring compassion and creativity to patients and families in countless ways. For Delia Zielinski, a lifelong musician, her calling is to share the healing power of music.
A Musical Journey to Hospice
Music has always been a constant thread in Delia’s life. She trained as a classical singer, performed in regional opera and musical theater, and taught voice lessons to students of all ages. She has also worked with children with autism, individuals with intellectual disabilities, and early childhood programs.
Beyond music, Delia has always been drawn to service. As a teenager in Memphis, she and her family volunteered in nursing homes. Later, she participated in pet therapy programs. “I’ve always been involved in volunteering in some way,” she reflects.
Delia moved to Hagerstown in 2016 and soon became involved with the local music community as a teacher and performer. In 2018, while teaching at a church, she spotted a flyer from Hospice of Washington County looking for volunteers, and the idea intrigued her. “I was familiar with hospice, but not in this area,” Delia recalls. “I thought I’d check it out. I went through the training and soon began visiting patients as a musical volunteer.”
The Power of Song
Armed with her guitar, or more recently, the portable keyboard at Doey’s House, Delia began offering music at patients’ bedside and in common spaces. She discovered that even simple, lighthearted songs could bring calm, joy, or connection in meaningful ways. “Music can change a person’s state,” she says. “Sometimes it calms them, sometimes it perks them up. I’ve seen people who were nonverbal light up with a smile or even give me a thumbs up. It’s incredible.”
Delia’s repertoire ranges from hymns and folk songs to jazz and show tunes—and she always makes an effort to learn special requests. One hymn, In the Garden, has become a special favorite. “I didn’t know it before I started volunteering here,” Delia says. “Now, every time I sing it, everyone joins in. It’s amazing to see the response.”
Finding Meaning as a Volunteer
For Delia, hospice volunteering is a way to use her gifts in their purest form. “It’s not about ego or applause,” she says. “It’s about being present during the most vulnerable time in someone’s life.” She admits it can be emotionally challenging at times, especially when patients are suffering, but more often the experience is uplifting. “It’s so rewarding. I’m grateful I can share music in this way. To bring a little happiness or serenity at the end of life—it’s really special.”
An Invitation to Serve
Delia encourages others to consider hospice volunteering, whether through music or simply by being present. “You don’t have to be musical,” she says. “You can sit with someone, listen to them, read to them, or even just watch TV together. Pets, art, or just your presence—it all matters. If you feel drawn to it, give it a try. You’ll know quickly if it’s right for you.”
For Delia, the work is a gift—not only to patients and their families, but also to herself. “To be able to give this to someone at the end of their journey—it’s incredible.”
Interested in becoming a volunteer with Gilchrist or Hospice of Washington County?