After Years, Monmouth Co. Nursing Home’s ‘Piano Man’ Plays Again

WALL, NJ - Nearly 100 years ago, Frank Zabransky met his first love: music.

At the young age of six, a piano teacher visited his home to give him lessons for just $1 per hour. As the Great Depression began to take hold in the country, the young New Jerseyan found solace in learning all types of music, but was especially drawn to classical music and some jazz.

Through the years, Zabransky lent his expertise on the keys in his high school orchestra and provided musical entertainment for wedding receptions. After being drafted for the U.S. Army during World War II and serving as a medical and surgical tech, Zabransky worked for years as a pharmacologist, eventually stopping the pursuit of his musical interests altogether.

Following 93 years of living in his Bergen County home where he first learned the instrument, Zabransky moved to Wall Township assisted living facility Sunnyside Manor last year where he began physical therapy, eventually regaining his strength, stability and passion for music. He’s now a regular musical guest during Friday afternoons, playing light tunes for other residents to enjoy.

“Frank is our resident Piano Man! He brings so much joy to our Friday happy hours. He worked so hard in physical therapy and now we’re all able to enjoy his talented skills,” said MaryEllen Keane, the Vice President of Sunnyside Manor in Wall Township.

The 97-year-old began his therapy by walking with a therapist, who followed behind with a wheelchair for safety purposes. He also worked on hand exercises to be able to play again without discomfort. After much hard work, Zabransky was able to successfully walk to the piano and play the keys after many quiet years. During yet another difficult period in American history, the senior is able to provide moments of joy for fellow residents of Sunnyside Manor.

“This is a great example of our staff's perseverance in creating person centered care for each individual at Sunnyside Manor,” said John F. Keane, Jr., Vice President of Sunnyside Manor. “Our Physical Therapy and Activities departments worked closely together to make Frank’s wish come true of playing the piano again.”