Music can provide emotional and behavioral benefits for people living with Alzheimer’s or other dementias, but concerns about constraints at a formal event may prevent caregivers from bringing their loved ones to enjoy the arts. In collaboration with the Alzheimer’s Association, Rochester and Finger Lakes Chapter, the Nazareth College Choirs and Nazareth music therapy program are hosting an accessible and interactive concert where dancing in the aisles and singing along is welcome and encouraged.
The “Why We Sing” concert is specifically for individuals living with Alzheimer’s or other dementias and their families and caregivers. The free concert will be hosted at Glazer Performance Center on Saturday, April 2, from 1 to 1:45 p.m. To register, call 1-800-272-3900.
“Musical memories are often preserved for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementias,” said Teresa Galbier, executive director of the Alzheimer’s Association, Rochester and Finger Lakes Chapter. “We are excited to have this opportunity to partner with Nazareth College in this innovative way to unlock those memories and to offer those with Alzheimer’s and those who care about them an afternoon performance with this talented group of musicians.”
Nazareth College Choirs will feature the world premiere of the award-winning composer Sarah Quartel’s piece, “Down The Silver Road.” Quartel, a Canadian composer and educator, will be in attendance for the world premiere of her piece.
The Nazareth choirs will also perform well-known songs with opportunities for audience members to join the choir and sing along.
Nazareth College is working to make the event enjoyable and truly accessible. The Alzheimer’s Association has worked with Nazareth music therapy students and gerontology club students and trained them on how to assist individuals living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Those students will be at the concert to assist anyone who may wish to move about to the music or be escorted to the lobby for a brief break. Visitors can enter the Glazer Music Performance Center from the parking lot without encountering stairs.
Prior to and following the concert, there will be a resource fair in the Duda Lobby of the Glazer Music Performance Center. Rochester area agencies and organizations can help connect caregivers with information and resources. During the resource fair, students will aid as ushers and oversee attendees while caregivers are able to browse the fair. The resource fair is from 12:15 to 1 p.m. and 1:45 to 2:30 p.m.
Visitors no longer need to show proof of vaccination or a negative test to attend any events on campus. Masks are still required for all attendees at large, indoor events, and at clinics on campus.
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