Jane Stump
There are 70 choirs for the memory impaired all over the world. Vista de la Montana Methodist Church, 3002 E. Miravista Lane, Tucson, near Catalina, will be number 71!
Hoping to clarify misperceptions on the part of our culture regarding those whose short-term memory is compromised as well as increase the quality of life of the memory impaired and their caregivers, the church has created The Vista Song of Joy Chorus. The chorus will consist of 10-15 memory impaired, their spouses or other caregivers, and members of the chorus team. The group will meet for two hours one afternoon per week for 8 weeks. It will start with a social time and snacks. The chorus will then practice old time favorites such as, I’ll Be Seeing You, You Belong to Me, and Down by the Old Mill Stream. At the end of the 8-week session, the chorus will present a gala community concert. There is no charge for the program.
It is becoming well known that although short-term memory is quite limited for some, long-term memory is remarkably intact. Music is a very effective stimulant of long-term memory and offers comfort, joy and pleasure. The chorus gives the memory impaired a chance to feel competent again, and to bring joy to themselves and others through song.
Caregivers often feel tired, isolated and depressed. Participation in the chorus gives them an opportunity to be with people who understand. They are able to experience how therapeutic music can be while enjoying the fellowship of a loving community.
We are in the process of recruiting the memory impaired and their spouses or caregivers for our 2020 session. Singing skills or talent is not required. Please contact Dr. Jane Stump, Director, Vista Song of Joy Chorus, at [email protected] for questions or to sign up.