The Memory Choir was created in 2018 and currently there are 7 Memory Choirs across Hampshire.

Singing has a magical effect on somebody with dementia, as a particular song can be the key that unlocks memories. Songs that are meaningful to someone's life story can impact those with dementia, which can re-establish a connection with loved ones.

How often do the different Memory Choirs meet?

Each Memory Choir has its own schedule of sessions. Some meet on a weekly basis, and some meet monthly. The choir sessions are one hour long. The sessions always start with a warm up of vocal exercises and stretches, and sometimes there are quiz questions about the music were singing. We have also introduced percussion instruments to use in some of the songs.

What kind of songs do The Memory Choir sing?

The Memory Choir currently has 3 song books. The songs are from a range of artists such as ABBA, Queen, Nat King Cole, Tom Jones, Cilla Black, The Beatles and many more. We are always trying out new songs before putting any new songbook together.

When singing the songs, choir members get some direction on performance. We talk about how to sing a song with emotion. The air guitars even come out on certain songs.

Musical experiences with The Memory Choir

The Memory Choir aims to give different musical experiences to members. So far, The Memory Choir have done 2 flashmob, performed to other choirs, gave a performance to an MP, with many more experiences being planned.

These experiences are so important in making memories for everyone who is experiencing dementia, whether it is the person with dementia or family members. On a flashmob in 2022, I was asked if the grandchildren could come along and sing with their grandmother, as it was something they could do with her and make a wonderful memory together. This is why inclusive membership is so important, as it can positively impact on so many more people.

Present

There some very exciting gigs being planned for The Memory Choir, that involve travelling to London to the Ministry of Justice in Petty France to give a performance. We also have performances in Fareham, Havant and Andover during Dementia Action Week in May.

Also The Memory Choir will be performing in the Judges Library at Winchester Crown Court. These are unusual venues, which will help to raise the profile of dementia, and demonstrate that someone can still experience exciting and wonderful things despite having dementia.

The Memory Choir is always looking to start new choirs around Hampshire, and is hoping that Romsey will have the next community Memory Choir.

The Memory Choir would like to raise some funds with the support of Dementia Friendly Hampshire to help towards the Memory Choir tour. This will help choir members with travel costs to London. We are looking to providing members with Memory Choir hats which will help identify choir members when we are gigging, as well as being a practical help when they are singing in the sunshine with some protection from the sun.

It can also help towards running another community choir.