Get Loud 2019 – How music therapy can enrich lives

 To mark the start of Get Loud 2019, we shared Simon’s story and asked you to share your feel good anthems. Below you can listen to Simon’s.

Tragically, a number of years ago Simon suffered multiple family bereavements and was left homeless. With little meaning or structure, his life began spiralling out of control. Music therapist Oli and Simon worked together to build Simon’s self-esteem and improve his social and mental health, encouraging Simon to take his own lead in music making and nurture his confidence in a supportive environment where his music is celebrated and acknowledged.

In Week Three we explored community in music. For Joy, singing in a choir after her husband’s death helped her to feel herself again, and provided her with a sense of community. We asked you to share the songs which reminded you of your friends.

For the final week of the campaign we looked at music therapy and dementia , and we told Sylvia’s story. Sylvia has dementia and Down’s Syndrome and lives in a supported living setting. Music has always been a big part of her life but despite her love of music, when Sylvia started music therapy she was often withdrawn and would sit quietly during sessions. However, over time, Sylvia began to engage – she started singing, seeking interaction and engaging with instruments. While other members of the group were playing, she would reach out towards them in encouragement and often dance in response!

To celebrate the importance of music in memories, we asked you to share the songs that reminded you of good times.