The residents and staff of Balhousie Alastrean care home in Tarland were treated to a VIP visit this week when violinist Paul Anderson came to play for them.

Anderson, a resident of Tarland with close connections to the home, is widely thought of as one of the best fiddlers of his generation. The violin virtuoso gave a stunning performance at Balhousie Alastrean, where he knows two of the care home residents personally.

Anderson, who has been receiving treatment for non-Hodgkins lymphoma, said he welcomed the opportunity to put in some practice ahead of a concert he plans on May 3 to raise funds for Friends of Anchor and cancer treatment unit that helped him.

“I always enjoy my visits to Balhousie Alastrean. It’s lovely to treat residents and staff to an impromptu performance – it’s heartwarming for me and for them and this was good practice for my forthcoming fundraiser.”

Becks Brice, Activities Coordinator at Balhousie Alastrean, said: “Paul has made a few visits to the home and it’s always special to have him play for us. It puts a big smile on everyone’s face, and of course music is a valuable tool for our residents with dementia. Studies prove that it is great for reducing anxiety and depression, and curbs anxiety.”

For more information about Paul Anderson’s fundraising concert at Aberdeen Music Hall visit www.aberdeenperformingarts.com. Funds raised will go towards Friends of Anchor and the Anchor unit at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary.