In May, the Virginia Symphony Orchestra launched “Generations in Unison,” an initiative designed to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs of memory care and assisted-living residents in partnering facilities. At the first session on May 26 at Warwick Forest Retirement Community in Newport News, a string quartet from the orchestra engaged participants in singalongs to familiar tunes and playing along on small instruments like shakers and hand drums. Music therapist Becky Watson is working with the VSO in programming and facilitating each session. Participating VSO musicians, staff, and volunteers have received dementia-awareness training. A second session is planned this month at Warwick Forest Retirement Community. Future sessions will include student volunteers via the VSO’s education programs. Said VSO Director of Orchestra Activities Dr. Christy Havens, “This program offers an exciting new opportunity for the VSO to serve and connect the community beyond the concert hall and the classroom. And for many VSO musicians and staff who have a shared experience with loved ones suffering from memory loss, the mission is a very personal one.” For more information, click here.
Posted June 15, 2017
