Tuesday, May 5, 2015

Music that soothes the soul

I want to talk one more time again for the first time about the power of music to soothe our souls.  I am about to be a part of a premier of a piece of music called "Alzheimer's Stories" by Robert Cohen.  I sing with the Choral Arts Society of Portland, Maine, and several times a year we present beautiful pieces to the public, choral works, sometimes great ones like The Messiah or Faure's Requiem, but sometimes we present new and unknown works as well.





We have been rehearsing all year and preparing in many ways for this experience.  On Saturday, May 9th, The Choral Arts Society will present this piece as part of a large symposium where there will be poetry by Alzheimer's patients, art by Alzheimer's patients, and a panel discussion before the concert as well.  This will be at the South Portland High School Auditorium, beginning at 6:45 for the symposium and 8pm for the concert.  There will also be a display in the lobby with information for all to peruse, as well as professionals who can answer questions.



This will be a meaningful experience for many people.  It will also inform those who know very little about the disease, and it may connect many people who are struggling either with the disease or with a family member who has been diagnosed with the disease.  There has been a great deal of research recently and new and improved ways of helping those with the disease, but there is never enough attention paid to this type of situation.  We are all hoping that it will help some, inform others, move everyone, and bring emotion to the forefront.


 The music is very accessible, and it has not been difficult to learn.  It is all in English, and tells the real stories of those who have struggled with Alzheimer's disease.   The music is very emotional, and the soloists are heart-felt and realistic in their portrayals of the people.  I think this is an experience not to miss, I hope anyone who reads this blog will go to the concert and the symposium.  I leave you with an article about the piece and the concert, be sure to check it out.

Article about the piece and the concert

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