New Memory Singers group for people living with dementia launches
A brand new singing group for people living with dementia and their carers launched in Chelmsley Wood on Thursday 16 January. Solihull Memory Singers is the second community choir to be set up by Warwick-based choir and music charity Armonico Consort.
The charity uses its specially-trained, professional musicians to lead fun and friendly sessions, with warm-ups, activity songs and a variety of familiar tunes that engage and stimulate the brain through music.
Singing has been proven to help people living with dementia to unlock memories and re-establish cognitive pathways. The sessions also help to build new friendships and boost confidence, helping people to feel more positive and supported.
Sarah Riddell, Operations Manager, Armonico Consort, said:
“During Covid, we partnered with The Alzheimer’s Society’s Singing for the Brain initiative to arrange specialist training for our musicians. This enabled us to set up our first community choir – Warwick Memory Singers – in 2021 for people living with dementia. The group has been a huge success and, with support from the Solihull Fairer Futures Fund, we’re delighted to be able to extend the programme to Chelmsley Wood.”
As well as being keen to hear from potential participants, Armonico are also on the lookout for volunteers to lend a hand during the sessions.
Solihull Memory Singers launched on Thursday 16 January 2025 and meets fortnightly at The Onward Club, 107 Helmswood Drive, Chelmsley Wood, B37 7NS.
Upcoming Dates:
- February 13th
- February 27th
- March 13th
- March 27th
- April 10th
- May 1st
- May 15th
- June 5th
- June 19th
- July 3rd
- July 17th
Details about joining or volunteering from Sarah Riddell
e-mail: sriddell@armonico.org.uk
Telephone: 07722 632242
Website: www.armonico.org.uk/communities
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