Former prima ballerina Marta Cinta González Saldaña, who had Alzheimer’s, left us with a truly unforgettable moment. In a video, she hears Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake, and something magical happens: her hands instinctively move, recalling the choreography she once performed as a prima ballerina. It’s breathtaking to watch. Ballet wasn’t just something she did—it was part of her very being, deeply intertwined with her soul. Even when words and memories faded, music unlocked something that words couldn’t. For those of us in business and leadership, it shows that true passion doesn’t fade. The things we care about most leave a mark far deeper than the surface. But it also teaches us something about connection. Whether it’s a loved one with dementia or a colleague struggling to communicate, sometimes it’s about finding the right language—whether that’s music, movement, or simply showing up and being present. Music, like leadership, has the power to unlock doors we didn’t even know were closed. It bridges gaps, revives memories, and connects us in ways that logic never can. Have you ever witnessed music—or any other form of art—connect with someone on a deeper level? Let’s hear your stories. This is one conversation we can all learn from.
Art and music aren’t just ‘extras’ in life—they’re core to who we are as people.
It's beautiful seeing Marta Cinta's energy come alive in her body. It's also beautiful how you make the connection to how to reach all of us who may just need the right key to open our doors wide: "...sometimes it’s about finding the right language..." This post really touched me today, thanks for sharing Elvis Eckardt 🙏 🩰
Magical moments that only those who love you can give you. In her essence she remains the Prima Ballerina that everyone admired and that she enjoyed.
What a touching story, Elvis Eckardt. It reminds me of how art can transcend barriers and touch the core of who we are. I've seen music bring a spark to someone who seemed unreachable. It's a powerful reminder of the connections we can forge beyond words. 😎 😎
This video gave me chills. It’s wild how something like music can bring back a piece of someone’s soul.
Watching her react to Swan Lake is such a powerful reminder of how deeply our passions stay with us, no matter what.
I’ve always believed music has a way of bringing people back to themselves, Elvis. This story is just more proof of that.
This just shows how much of an impact our passions leave on us. It’s like they’re woven into who we are, Elvis.
This interaction is both heartbreaking and beautiful simultaneously. Passion drives action, despite physical or mental limitations. My wife is often moved to tears by music, when it triggers a memory of loved ones or a tender moment. Thank you for sharing!
Associate Director - US Regional Marketing Dermatology/Immunology
14hI understand that all too well with my mother's own slow cognitive decline. She was a nurse her entire career and that passion for who she was for so long is still apparent in conversations today. I think because she was so competent discussing healthcare topics years after her retirement, we missed the subtle signs she was declining for a long while in other areas until we started piecing things together.