New choir brings joy of music to people living with dementia

Brisbane North’s first dementia choir is creating lasting memories and joy for carers, partners, friends and community members living with dementia.

The Bright ‘N’ Sparks Choir (Brisbane North Dementia Choir), which began in early 2024 at the Brighton Wellness Hub, follows on from successful dementia choirs across Australia which are increasing the social interaction, connections and support for people experiencing dementia.

Community and Oral Health Consumer and Community Partnerships Manager Claire Harrison said with nearly half a million people in the country living with dementia, the personal impact on individuals and their families, partners and carers can be very high.

“Dementia can happen to anybody, but the risk increases with age with almost one person in 10 aged over 65 and three in 10 over 85 years suffering dementia in Australia,” she said.

“Music can be very therapeutic, and good for speech, memory and socialising. It can enhance and maintain a person’s wellbeing, but also prevent and reduce isolation, loneliness and depression.”

The Bright ‘N’ Sparks Choir is being led by Katie Lawton, the concertmaster of the Moreton Bay Symphony Orchestra, and music teacher Althea O’Dee.

“Singing together has so many benefits,” Katie said.

“It is really inclusive. Participants can come along and enjoy the music and company.

“It is wonderful to see people connecting and seeing them benefit by getting involved in and learning about music and getting so much out of the experience.”

Katie’s mother’s experience with dementia and other health conditions, and her music background has naturally led and inspired her to help others who have experienced dementia.

Claire said the Bright ‘N’ Sparks Choir was developed so that people living with dementia and their support person, family members or carers could also attend to enjoy the experience.

“Participants have the opportunity to build wonderful memories, either together or individually,” Claire said.

“By involving the carer, friend or family member also means that the person with dementia has support at all times.

“It also helps family members and carers connect with others as their wellbeing is also so important.”

The Bright ‘N’ Sparks Choir provides an opportunity for members to improve their singing skills even if they are beginners or have music backgrounds.

Claire said the Brighton Wellness Hub provides opportunities for the local Brisbane North community, as well as residents, patients, families and carers of Brighton Health Campus, to engage in activities that promote wellbeing, social connection and healthy aging.

The Bright ‘N’ Sparks Choir runs each Friday from 9.30am to 12.00 noon at Brighton Health Campus, with singing from 10.00am to 11.00am, followed by a light morning tea.

The choir currently has places available for interested people. To find out more information please contact 3631 7568.