"TOGETHER IN HARMONY" COMMUNITY MUSIC GROUP

FOR PEOPLE LIVING WITH DEMENTIA AND CARERS, 2ND AND 4TH WEDNESDAYS EVERY MONTH

Community music group for people with dementia and their carers run by qualified music therapist Frances Attwood

Boldre Memorial Hall 

10.00 – Refreshments 10.30 -11.30 Music

£5 to include carer

Music as an aid to many abilities

As music uses many different areas of the brain, this enables participation even when parts of the brain are failing due to illness or damage. 

So, for instance, when speech or motor skills are not fully functioning, a person may still respond to rhythm, melody or harmony. 

Active engagement in music also stimulates other areas of the brain, for example, someone who may have lost the ability to talk may be able to sing the words of a familiar song.

What happens in a session?

Each time we meet  we have a theme e.g. birds, the weather, so as to include a wide variety of styles and eras of music.  We use songs (although the ability to sing is not essential!), play percussion instruments, and sometimes listen to short pieces on the piano or violin.  The emphasis is on enjoyment and participation, even if this is just nodding  or tapping a foot.

What are the benefits of being in a group?

Making music with others is naturally sociable and encourages listening, cooperation, and using non-verbal communication. It offers opportunities for interaction, reducing isolation and experiencing the support of others within a group.


Frances Attwood did her initial training at the Guildhall, London in 2001. She has since gained an MA in Music Therapy from the University of the West of England. She is registered with the Health and Care Professions Council, has DBS clearance and undergoes regular safeguarding training.

She practised from 2002 to 2009 at the Coda Music Centre in Walkford with children and adults with a variety of needs, from learning disabilities and autism to social and emotional needs. She lived and worked in Uganda for five years, mainly with children with special needs. 

For further information contact Frances on 01590 718749 or 07500 117814

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.