Choir for people facing Alzheimer's and other chronic conditions seeks singers and volunteers

The Family Caregivers Center of Mercy is actively recruiting people with chronic conditions, their care partners and volunteers to be involved with a new musical venture in Cedar Rapids called Together in Song. The Together in Song chorus is designed to spark memories and create meaningful connections for people living with dementia and other chronic conditions, and their spouses or care partners.

“Over the past decade, there has been a growing body of research on the positive effects singing has on people who are battling dementia,” said Steve Nurre, conductor for Together in Song. “People who struggle with remembering names or dates can often recall song lyrics. I’m looking forward to seeing the positive effects this venture has both on the singers and the audience.”

Nurre’s wife, Mary, will serve as accompanist for the chorus.

Practices for Together in Song begin September 4, with the inaugural concert planned for November 19. Practices take place from 10 a.m. to noon about once a week at Hallagan Education Center at Mercy Medical Center, 701 10^th St. SE. No previous singing experience is required.

If you’d like to get involved, or find out more about Together in Song, please contact the Family Caregivers Center of Mercy at (319) 550-2664 or email fcgc@mercycare.org.