Run a Dementia Choir in Ormskirk

Volunteering, jobs & education

Carousel Music & Movement is lucky to attract great volunteers. Since we started this project, we have had multiple volunteers. Some have helped with engagement of choir members offering physical support to those who wanted to move along with the music or play instruments; many have performed themselves to continue to raise funding for the choir and others have helped design advertising, liaised with other agencies to ensure that Merebrook was a successful project.

Arts, culture & heritage

We use lively music, movement, singing and percussion activities to help improve mental health and wellbeing. During our sessions, participants recall their younger years and are often transported back to earlier times in their lives recalling where they used to go dancing and what bands and orchestras they used to watch. Interacting with other members of the choir brings such happiness to individuals and they share stories of their youth.

Activity, health and leisure

Multiple studies have evidenced the positive effect of music therapy on people with dementia and disabilities. The process of singing and playing music appears to balance emotions, stimulate conversation and reduce blood pressure. That effect impacts carers as well, reducing stress levels. The simple joy of listening to music and singing along seems to stir positive emotions in everyone. We encourage the choir to sing and move; the movement being just as important as the singing. We have had choir members come along and sit withdrawn in the first couple of weeks of attendance, only to see them start to move, play instruments, sing and often dance. The feedback from carers has been fantastic. Comments like "I only hear my husband say words when he’s singing to songs he knows from the past. Absolutely brilliant what MRM choir is doing to help others like my husband.”