Music for Life began as a two year research project that was a collaboration between Musica Viva and Campbelltown Arts Centre. Sweet Tonic (as the group was called) had three areas of focus; weekly singing workshops, Coffee Concert performances and research (to investigate if participation has an effect on the health and well-being of seniors).
In 2009 the program expanded nationally; to Mandurah, WA and Inala, QLD. A group will begin in the Mornington Peninsula, VIC in July, 2010. Other sites are currently being sought and negotiated. Stay tuned for updates.
Each workshop is 2 hours long, which includes a 20 minute break for participants to have a cuppa and a chat. Each workshop begins with vocal and physical warm-ups. This is not just for the usual reason of ensuring the body is ready to sing, but also gives the participants skills to develop the their voice and voice control. The vocal warm-ups start off the education component of the workshop, and the physical warm-up (gentle stretching etc) starts off the well-being component. Rhythm exercises, rounds and blending exercises are also used to warm-up the voice and body, as well as increase musical knowledge. Participants then learn songs, including songs in voice parts (harmony). The songs learnt are from a wide range of genres, including world music. Participants will learn to sing a cappella (without accompaniment), although songs may also be accompanied by piano, guitar or backing track.
Another possible aspect of the program is collaborative song-writing. Some workshop time during the program may be devoted to collaborative lyric and melody writing, which is then arranged by the facilitator.
An end-of-program performance for family, friends, and the wider community is a celebration of the participants’ achievements and also works to promote seniors in the community.
If you are interested in participating in the program or would like more information, contact Jenny Ainsworth – Creativity and Ageing Manager.
“I was quite excited to be involved with the singing group. Songs that I thought would be impossible for me, I have found them to be challenging and lovely to hear the voices harmonising. I didn’t know I could sing!”
2009 Participant (Mandurah, F, 73)