Introduction
Music has been used since ancient times for its healing properties. In recent years medical and musical research into the relationship between music and the brain has begun to explain why music has health benefits. One reason is that many different parts of the brain make a response to music, so if one area is impaired through illness affecting brain function, another area may still respond.
For so many people with dementia, music continues to make sense to the brain and can offer a medium for self expression, communication and strengthening their sense of identity. Music can calm and enliven a person and give opportunities for using their strengths.
Everyone is different and fortunately there are an increasing number of options available to people with dementia, for enjoying music. In Oxfordshire thereare special concerts held at the Jacqueline du Pre Music Building, special singing groups called Singing for the Brain and also the Guideposts Trust Music Therapy Service which offers one to one sessions and small groups led by trained music therapists.
Please see the links below for detailed information about musical opportunities for people with dementia in Oxfordshire and beyond.
Moving Music Concerts for People with Dementia and Their Carers
The Jacqueline du Pre Music Building at St Hilda's College, Oxford, has worked with John Lubbock and the Orchestra of St John's since 2007 to put on a series of concerts especially for people living with dementia and their carers.
The concerts were initially developed in consultation with the Oxford Carers Centre, Young Carers UK, The Alzheimer's Society, and day care centres and are contiously evaluated and reviewed.
Performed by professional musicians in a special music venue, the concerts are intended to provide the opportunity for people living with dementia and their carers to enjoy a concert together in an atmosphere which is welcoming and friendly. There are opportunities to sing along, as well as to listen to classical and light music.
Refreshments are served before the concert, allowing for people to be dropped off and to settle in. There is a small charge of £5.00 to help cover costs.
Concerts are held approximately every 3 months and the next concert will be held on 31st January 2012 from 2.00pm to 3.00pm with refreshments from 1.30pm. The entry cost will be £5.00 and carers go FREE. Invitation.
For more information and to reserve places, please call 01865 276821 / 251305 or email: movingmusic.jdp@gmail.com
For more information about Jaqueline Du Pre Music Building and the Orchestra of St John's, please go to:
Guideposts Trust - Music Therapy Service
Music therapy addresses the psychological needs of people living with dementia. It is for people who:
- may have lost confidence
- are anxious or confused
- who find it hard to make sense of things
- who find it difficult to engage in meaningful activity
- who find it increasingly hard to communicate verbally
- who find it increasingly difficult to sustain meaningful relationships
- A sense of enjoyment
- A sense of inclusion and safety
- A sense of coherence; finding it meaningful
- Feeling more confident
- Feeling enlivened; breathing better through physical activity of singing and playing
- Feeling they can communicate through the music; no need for words
- Feeling in control
- Tapping into hidden potential
For more information contact: Pemma Spencer-Chapman on 01865 775520, by email to pemma.sc@gmail.com or click on the links below:
Part of a Music Therapy Session (a 3 minute film clip)