At Music in Motion’s winter session hosted by The Well, choral director Danielle Cozart Steele and pianist Eunwha Lee invite participants to sing along with familiar standards and holiday tunes.
Photo: Caroline Puryear
In the realm of care for those living with memory loss, fostering connections and moments of joy is paramount. Enter Music in Motion, a unique collaboration between three Cincinnati-based organizations—the Giving Voice Foundation (GVF), Episcopal Retirement Services (ERS), and Cincinnati Opera. Music in Motion blends music, movement, and community to uplift spirits and enhance the well-being of individuals living with dementia and their caregivers.
Kristin Cooley, program director for the Giving Voice Foundation, shared the inception of Music in Motion: “One of our treasured Giving Voice Collaborative members had the pleasure of connecting with [Cincinnati Opera’s Harry T. Wilks Artistic Director] Evans Mirageas … at a community event. During their meeting, Evans shared the Opera's yearning to perform and connect beyond the mainstage. And our collaborative member shared the immense value music can have on individuals impacted by a progressive dementia. The rest is history!”
Each Music in Motion session begins with a singalong performance led by Cincinnati Opera artists featuring songs that are familiar to the participants and associated with positive memories. Classics like “Que Sera, Sera,” “On the Street Where You Live,” and other melodies fill the room with a warm sense of nostalgia.
“We see participants greet each other, laugh and hug, sing along to familiar songs, and really feel safe with one another. It is such a respite from their confusion and really empowers them to be themselves.”
Following the musical experience, participants engage in a gentle chair yoga session led by instructor Stacy Shirley. This soothing practice not only promotes physical well-being but also encourages relaxation and mindfulness, creating a serene atmosphere for reflection and connection.
Shannon Braun, director of ERS’s Center for Memory Support and Inclusion, emphasizes the advantages of the program's unique approach: “We recognize the benefit of socialization as it relates to brain health and the unmistakable power of music. Many people experience isolation when they have dementia or care for someone who does. Creating community is a vital part of the journey, and programs like these are a true lifeline to those going through it. We see participants greet each other, laugh and hug, sing along to familiar songs, and really feel safe with one another. It is such a respite from their confusion and really empowers them to be themselves.”
Yoga instructor Stacy Shirley (at right) leads Music in Motion participants through a session of chair yoga.
Photo: Caroline Puryear
Choral director Danielle Cozart Steele, who helped lead the winter 2023 session of Music in Motion, said that the program resonates personally: “Having lost my own father to Alzheimer’s in 2022 during the pandemic meant that I missed much of the end of his life. Being able to pour my love and care into the people living with dementia who are part of Music in Motion heals a part of my soul. This work is my grand love song to my dad, who taught me all about altruism and service, to love people, and to make meaning by sharing music. These programs are invaluable—not just for people with Alzheimer’s and dementia but for their caregivers and community. I’m so grateful to be a part of this meaningful work.”
Participants have also enthusiastically endorsed the program’s impact. One caregiver expressed their gratitude, stating, “It’s so wonderful for my mom to have these events to look forward to! [I] also appreciate that the songs are ones my mom recognizes. Having something she remembers fondly from her past is very positively stimulating for her!” Another participant commended the therapeutic intersection of music and movement: “... [W]e all were able to relax. Fill our lungs, be silly, and leave refreshed.”
In a world where the needs of older adults often go overlooked, Music in Motion serves as a beacon of compassion and creativity—a testament to the transformative power of music in fostering connection and enhancing quality of life.
Said Cooley, “[Music in Motion] is the epitome of true, genuine collaboration. We are all united in our goal to make a positive impact for our older adult community in the Tristate region (and beyond!).”
Echoed Braun, “Our community is better for partnerships like the one between ERS, GVF, and the Opera. It is so heartening to meet others who share the same values and mission. We all care about creating safe and welcoming spaces, and spreading a bit of joy.”
Music in Motion receives support from Episcopal Retirement Services.