Dominic Chianese, an actor whose long line of movie and television credits include Junior Soprano in the hit show, “The Sopranos,” visited the American Health Care Association on April 18 to discuss his foundation, Joy Through Art, which brings music and theater arts to nursing facility residents.

“It’s what I call a social mission to bring joy into their lives,” said Chianese, in an interview with Provider magazine’s Meg LaPorte. Chianese has been appearing in television roles since 1964. His big screen credits include “Godfather Part II,” “Dog Day Afternoon,” and “All the President’s Men.” He has been performing in nursing facilities for more than 30 years, singing and playing guitar. Collections of his music include the CDs “Ungrateful Heart” (2003) and “Hits” (2001).

Joy Through Art “hires professional artists to visit residents,” says the program’s website. “Like Dominic, the artists are more than entertainers, they become family.” The artists “become a social support system that helps to fulfill the emotional needs of the patients on a personal level,” the website says. “Art and entertainment, friendship and bonding, help residents to maintain better health.”

To learn more about Joy Through Art, visit www.joythroughart.org. Provider’s interview with Chianese is available on You Tube or can be viewed in the video section of the magazine’s website, www.providermagazine.com.