Some people can sing well. Some people can’t. Some people think they can sing well, but they really can’t. Does that sound about right? There may be some other categories people fall in to, but I know I am definitely, without a doubt, 100 percent in the “some people can’t” category. But, I love to do it (in my car or my office when no one else is around)!
The people we serve are no different. They all fall in to one of the previously mentioned categories (and I’m not telling who goes where), but there’s no doubting that they all love to sing. There’s always music on in the Sky’s the Limit program or in the cafeteria during lunch. They watch (appropriate) music videos, have educational lessons on musical artists and even start their day off with the National Anthem! Music is engrained into their everyday lives.
So, when Bona Vista’s Early Childhood Administrative Assistant Angie Denmark was approached about leading a choir for our adult persons served back in July, she wasn’t exactly sure what to expect. The thought had never crossed her mind, although she is in a choir herself and loves to sing. “The adults love to sing,” Denmark said. “We have a performance scheduled for the Board of Directors meeting in December. They are really excited to sing for the board members. So much so, that some practices that’s all we get done…talking about our upcoming performance and how great it’s going to be.” A second performance will also take place during the adult day services holiday program on Dec. 16.
Denmark doesn’t play any instruments, so finding songs the Joyful Noise Choir can sing acapella and that holds their attention has been the biggest challenge. Currently, they are working on three holiday songs that most were familiar with. “The adults look forward to choir practice every week,” she said. “It’s not always easy, and some weeks I need more help from their staff than others. But, in the end, it’s worth it. They love it so much.”
I love it, too! When I was at The Crossing (where the practices are held every Thursday afternoon) for something unrelated, choir practice was about to take place. I had never heard them before, and had no idea what to expect. I’m not going to lie… it was AWESOME! The persons served were so in to it, giving it all they had and it was amazing. Was it the best choir I’d ever heard? Well, they won’t be taking Broadway by storm any time soon, but it was definitely music to my ears.
The choir isn’t all fun and games (mostly it is, though) because secretly the members are learning, and don’t even realize it. Miriam O’Malley-Long, Direct of Adult Day Services said, “Music is universal and can be enjoyed by everyone. Many persons served use it as a way to express themselves, build gross motor skills and increase communication. It also promotes social and emotional growth.”
I’ve said it before, but it never hurts to repeat…that’s where the magic happens. There are fewer things more beautiful to witness than someone having fun while learning something.
Until next time…keep a good view on life!
-AB