LaMar Wyse’s background in both hospital administration and music lends itself perfectly to his role as a volunteer pianist in the Bedford lobby of Aultman Hospital, where he provides comfort to patients, families and visitors.

Raised in Hartville, LaMar earned a degree in music from Malone University before going back to school to become a respiratory therapist and then earning a master’s in hospital administration. He began his first hospital CEO position in Bluffton, Ohio.

Throughout his 35-plus-year career as a hospital administrator, LaMar kept up with music. He organized and participated in musical events in the community and played piano at hospital parties and special occasions. He returned to Stark County a few years ago when he retired.

His involvement with Aultman Hospital began earlier this year. LaMar and his wife visited the hospital, using the Bedford entrance. “The piano music was instantly calming for my wife,” he said. “I thought, ‘I could do this for people, too.’”

His repertoire for the Bedford lobby includes show tunes, jazz, new age, light classical, sacred music and more. He ends each session with “Sentimental Journey.”

Empathy was a hallmark of LaMar’s career, as he listened closely to patients and staff to continuously improve patient care. He uses music to help patients and their families cope with difficult situations and overwhelming emotions.

“I volunteer to play piano because you never know how your service will impact people,” he said. “Patients and families come into the hospital experiencing so many emotions – joy at the birth of a child, uncertainty about tests and possible diagnoses or grief from loss or a catastrophic illness. Playing piano is my commitment to people and their well-being.”

One person may be moved to tears by the music, while another may react with joy or a simple thumbs up. One visitor told LaMar that a hymn he played reminded him of his mother, who had passed away.

“Piano music is a service that Aultman provides to help patients and visitors,” LaMar said. “We may never know each person’s specific need, but we can see that the music touches them deeply.”

In addition to being passionate about music and healthcare, LaMar is an avid car buff. A former car collector, he still enjoys detailing and driving interesting cars.

He recently completed a term on the Malone University Board of Trustees and currently serves on the board of ArtsinStark.

He also enjoys spending time with his family. LaMar and his wife met at Malone when she was a voice student and he was her accompanist. They have two adult children and six grandchildren.

“I so appreciate Aultman,” he said. “It worked out beautifully that I had a hospital administration career where I was able to use music to connect with others. Now at Aultman, I can continue to use music to reach out to people in need.”