Volunteer Spotlight!
Ava Silva Costa
Founder, Arturo Healing Hearts
Instrument: Violin
School: Ranney School
Joined: July 2025
Favorite Piece to Play for Patients: Ashokan Farewell by Jay Ungar
Why I Volunteer:
“I created Arturo Healing Hearts because I’ve seen how music can reach where words cannot. Playing in hospitals has shown me that something as simple as a few notes can offer comfort, connection, and even healing to someone going through an incredibly hard time. When I perform, I’m not just playing for patients—I’m sharing my heart and giving them a moment of peace. That’s the most meaningful thing I can do.”
Fun Fact: Ava named her violin Arturo, and he’s been her musical companion through some of her most meaningful performances—including the ones that inspired this nonprofit.
Benjamin Davidov
Volunteer at Arturo Healing Hearts
Instrument: Piano
School: Ridge High School
Joined: November 2025
Favorite Piece to Play for Patients: Nocturne in E Flat Major by Chopin
Why I Volunteer:
“ I decided to volunteer because I wanted to spread my joy of music to those that are having a hard time in the hospital."
Fun Fact: Besides playing piano I also am on the wrestling team at my high school.
Vivek Maharaj
Volunteer at Arturo Healing Hearts
Instrument: Piano
School: Marlboro High School
Joined: November 2025
Favorite Piece to Play for Patients: Ludovico Einaudi - Nuvole Bianche
Why I Volunteer:
“ I volunteer because since I was younger, music has captivated me. In the past two years, I taught myself how to read sheet music and play piano, among multiple other instruments. Music is the medium of art I find solace in ; it can communicate in seconds what words take days to. I hope to bring my passion for it to anyone, hopefully inspiring them to find beauty and meaning in everyday moments that are commonly overlooked. I also hope my journey so far can motivate others to pursue their passion. With dedication, anything is possible."
Fun Fact: Apart from music, I have many other hobbies, including drawing, writing, learning new languages and playing basketball.
Gagana Batchu
Volunteer at Arturo Healing Hearts
Instrument: Electric and Acoustic Guitar
School: Woodbridge Academy Magnet School
Joined: December 2025
Favorite Piece to Play for Patients: Reelin' In The Years by Steely Dan
Why I Volunteer:
“ When I first started playing guitar, it was a distraction for me to forget about things around me. Music has captivated me from a young age, and I want to share those emotions. Regardless of the way you are feeling, music transports you to another place, which offers comfort to those who may need it. Music is a universal language that anyone can understand, and especially in medicine, it is a form of empathy that is extremely important. When I perform, I feel as though I can make a difference in the hospital by changing the way someone is feeling."
Fun Fact: In addition to playing guitar, I am also on the girls' basketball team at my school.