December was a jingling and jolly month for many at The Western Reserve Masonic Community! The Silver Songbirds Chorus joined in the merry activities as a new choral group. The Silver Songbirds Chorus performed “Merry Musical Memories” for family and friends for the first time on December 17. Beyond being full of fun, the chorus provides an inclusive space for residents with Alzheimer’s, other dementias, and brain injuries to sing and work towards a common goal — a performance! Family members and caregivers are encouraged and welcomed to sing with the chorus, gain support from one another, and create positive memories with their loved ones.
The Silver Songbirds Chorus is based on The Giving Voice Chorus model, which gives caregivers and their loved ones affected by Alzheimer’s, an activity to experience together in the community. This initiative was adapted to residential life, and introduced to the Western Reserve residents by the granddaughter of Sam Lambert, Alex Melchiorre. Often visiting her grandpa and looking for a way to create positive memories together, Alex started The Silver Songbirds Chorus.
Eleven weeks of rehearsal, every Monday, from 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. prepared The Silver Songbirds for their Christmas concert. During rehearsals, familiar Christmas carols were lead by our choir director, Alexandra Horwitz. Horwitz is a senior at Highland High School, and will be pursuing a music therapy degree at Baldwin Wallace University. Dr. Elva Michal, a Villa’s Resident and our pianist, provided their tune. Dr. Michal, in the off-season, also provides individual music lessons to residents in Pathways. Throughout the hour-long rehearsals, The Silver Songbirds, with Alexandra and Dr. Michal, worked on perfecting songs and having a great time!
The choir was comprised of singers from a variety of backgrounds, from many years of singing to their first experience in a choir with The Silver Songbirds Chorus. Regardless of talent level, the Songbirds sounded like they had been together as a choir for 11 years, instead of just 11 weeks! The Monday night practices did not just consist of singing, but time to socialize, enjoy a refreshing beverage, and “move and groove!" Rehearsal volunteers helped them to grow in so many ways! Everyone was thankful for the help from: Dr. Elva Michal (pianist), Alexandra Horwitz (choir director), Dr. Keith Michal, Maria Melchiorre, John Melchiorre, Brendan Gulick, Katy Major, Olivia Tomsick, and Scott Michal.
With great anticipation, the Christmas concert came and The Silver Songbirds we’re humbled to perform in front of 125 of their closest family and friends in the chapel. Various members introduced songs and many caregivers sang next to their loved ones. Our resident soloist sang Silent Night beautifully! She stated that she enjoyed her first season with The Silver Songbirds, and expressed that her favorite part was “singing and also [that] everyone is so happy!" As the concert came to a close, Santa and Mrs. Claus made a surprise appearance. Those present were delighted to have them, and enjoyed their gifts and treats. The fun did not end after the performance concluded, though. Jean Lee, author of Alzheimer’s Daughter, joined the group with her book, and shared her experiences during the reception. The Alzheimer’s Association provided a table with resources on support and outreach services. The “Merry Musical Memories” performance ended with many families getting to know one another and sharing Christmas joy.
The Silver Songbirds will be preparing for a spring performance very soon. Rehearsals will take place every Monday from 6:00 - 7:00 p.m., starting February 26, 2018. They are looking for committed and energetic volunteers. No singing experience is required as there are many different volunteer roles, and they will make sure you are comfortable in your role. Residents in other living areas serve as the best individuals to volunteer due to their understanding of the Masonic Obligation.
The Silver Songbirds Chorus is looking forward to an exciting Spring Concert. They would like to wish everyone a Happy New Year, and hope to make wonderful memories together, this spring!
