THE FACE OF PHILANTHROPYSung to Their Rest

By Brennen Jensen

While all musicians strive to please and entertain people with their music, Sharilyn Cohn, a harpist and vocalist, carries an extra burden: Her music may be some of the last sounds her listeners ever hear.

Ms. Cohn is a "music thanatologist," a performer who plays music for people who are dying or near death. The specialized music she creates aims to lessen physical and psychological pain while easing fears.

"We create an intimate space," she says, "and a peaceful