Live Music Now NI, in partnership with Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council, recently celebrated a special showcase performance by the Forget Me Notes Choir — a joyful and uplifting dementia friendly singing group led by musician Amanda St John at The Courtyard Theatre.
The showcase was an incredibly special evening, with audiences experiencing first-hand the joy and fulfilment that music can bring to those living with dementia.
The evening highlighted not only the abundance of joy and talent in the choir, but also the powerful role that music plays in supporting wellbeing and connection. For people living with dementia, music can be especially meaningful tool. Research shows that musical memory is stored in a different part of the brain, meaning that even those experiencing memory loss can often recall every word and note of familiar songs. Music can unlock deeply personal memories, offering moments of recognition, comfort, and joy.
The Forget Me Notes Choir is designed with this in mind — creating a space where participants can express themselves, build confidence and enjoy the simple pleasure of singing together. Sessions are relaxed and inclusive, with a strong emphasis on enjoyment, participation and social connection.
The Forget Me Notes Choir meets every Friday, bringing together older people and those living with dementia in a welcoming, supportive, and creative environment. Sessions are free and take place from 10.30am to 12noon in The Courtyard Theatre, Ballyearl Leisure Centre, Newtonabbey and finish with tea, coffee and conversation. The project is supported by Antrim and Newtonabbey Borough Council in partnership with Live Music Now.
Photographer credit: Stephen Davidson
