Big hearts and voices stand together

BIGGER Hearts Dementia Alliance Ballarat and its Singing Circle Choir will present the annual Stand By Me fundraising concert on Sunday 21 June at York Street Church of Christ.

Funds raised support music in the lives of people affected by dementia, aphasia and their carers.

The choir was formed in May 2021 after Dr Kerrie Shiell and her brother Mark watched a television program featuring a similar choir in England.

“It stemmed from an off-the-cuff remark made after we viewed the program,” said Dr Shiell, director of continuing care at Grampians Health.

“Music can do so much for the health of dementia patients and their carers.

“Mark held the role of musical director for the first 12 months until he moved to Melbourne.

“Then Geoff Hassell took over and is a true unsung hero.

“He is a very humble person with an innate ability to understand exactly what the participants need.

“Geoff motivates and inspires everyone in the group. Under his direction they are flourishing.”

About 20 people attend weekly rehearsals.

“The choir consists of both people affected with dementia and their carers,” Dr Shiell said.

“It can be a very isolating time, and the choir is a great excuse for them to come together, reconnect with others and help to reduce loneliness.”

The concert will be held from 1.30pm to 4pm.

Tickets are $20 or $15 concession at the door.