Mar 16 2023: Lost Chord UK launching Wakefield dementia friendly singing sessions
The sound of music is coming to Wakefield with the launch of a new community choir by acclaimed Yorkshire dementia charity Lost Chord UK.
Founded more than 20 years ago, Lost Chord is the South Yorkshire-based organisation that provides vital interactive sessions featuring a team of professional musicians for people living with dementia in care homes and day centres both across the region and nationally.
In 2022, the charity expanded its services with the launch of community singing events in both Sheffield and Rotherham.
And that scheme is now moving into West Yorkshire as Lost Chord UK musicians Elizabeth Ball and Suzi Saperia launch the charity’s first Wakefield Singalong Choir.
The debut series of sessions will be held at Wrenthorpe Methodist Church on April 25, May 9 and 23, June 6 and 20 and July 4.
“We will be learning all styles of music and will especially focus on songs from the 1940s, 1950s and 1960s,” said Elizabeth.
“The sessions are free and open to everyone but will be especially suited to the older generation and people living with dementia.
“No experience is needed - just come along, have fun and sing some great songs! “
Suzi added: “I am thrilled to be able to start up a Lost Chord UK community singing group right on my doorstep.
“My first experience of a dementia friendly choir was working in London at The Wigmore Hall and I was able to see first hand just how impactful this was for those living with dementia and the people around them, their carers and relatives too.
“The opportunity to be able to return to my hometown of Wakefield and share these profound musical experiences with local people is one I am hugely grateful for.”
Lost Chord UK Chief Executive Clare Langan said she was delighted that two of the charity’s most popular musicians were taking the community singing concept to Wakefield.
“We are taking this leap of faith because we know the choir is going to serve the community and make a huge difference to the lives of people living with or journeying alongside dementia or indeed bring wellbeing, joy and a sense of community to anyone who would simply love to sing in a completely ‘all are welcome’ choir,” she said.
“The health benefits of singing are well documented and I know this is going to be a community choir like no other because of the exceptional gifts and personalities of the sessions leaders Elizabeth and Suzi.
“I believe in empowering our creative musicians who deliver the outstanding sessions that we as a charity are renowned for.
The passion the musicians bring comes from their complete belief in the transformative power of music.
“We currently have no direct funding for these sessions, however, so if any local company would like to direct sponsor the sessions please do reach out to me at clare@lost-chord.org.uk."
To launch the Wakefield sessions, there will be a fundraising concert at Wrenthorpe Methodist Church church on March 25, a special spring showcase of Elizabeth’s students and her vocal harmony ensemble Serenitas All Female Singing Group, of which Suzi is a member.
For tickets visit https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/whats-on/wakefield/wrenthorpe-methodist-church/singers-spring-showcase/e-yardvv
To find out more about the work of Lost Chord UK visit lost-chord.org.uk
