When music legend Tony Christie approached Nick Moran, from Swindon, to produce his latest music video, Nick knew Swindon’s Singing for the Brain Freshbrook group should be involved. Nick’s mother Maureen, who is living with Alzheimer’s disease, is a regular at the Alzheimer’s Society singing group.
Singer Tony Christie, 80, revealed in January he has been diagnosed with dementia. He recorded the song Thank You for Being A Friend - for dementia charity Music 4 Dementia – with help from music legends Sting and Nile Rodgers, among others. Christie was friends with performer Andrew Gold who wrote and released the original version of the song in 1978.
Alzheimer’s Society’s Singing for the Brain groups bring people affected by dementia together to sing a variety of songs they know and love in a fun and friendly environment. Producer Nick’s mum Maureen – who usually goes to the group with his father Dick – especially enjoyed being filmed for the music video. She can be seen dancing around, performing for the camera.
The video also features footage of Nottingham’s Our Dementia Choir, led by actor and Alzheimer’s Society Ambassador Vicky McClure.
Nick said: “I care for my mum two days a week, and that’s why I undertook this project. Mum has Alzheimer’s disease and she loves going to Singing for the Brain. When we arrive she remembers where she is – she needs a social environment to feel she can bounce around and engage with people.
“She can’t sing, but she dances around and shakes the tambourine – like she’s in Pan’s People. It’s a respite for everyone. Mum’s always singing and dancing and she’s always the first to hit the dance floor at weddings. She was singing at the group until recently – she finds it therapeutic, and it stimulates the brain. She’s sharper afterwards.”
Alzheimer's Society Group Co-ordinator for Swindon, Karen Owen, said: “We were delighted to welcome Nick and his camera to our Swindon Freshbrook Singing for the Brain group. It was an honour to be involved in this video. Music can be a real tonic to a lot of people, but for those living with dementia it can be deeply therapeutic and provide so many benefits. And for those who have caring responsibilities too.
"The aim of these sessions is to provide a safe space for people to enjoy music in whatever way they feel comfortable – singing ability isn’t required at all, some are just happy to listen, whilst some join in with actions and others are happy to belt out their favourite tunes! We love welcoming Maureen to Singing for the Brain, and getting to know Dick and Nick. Maureen gets a great deal from these sessions – she is always the first on her feet dancing, which encourages others to get up and dance with her.
“Alzheimer’s Society is there for everyone affected by dementia, through our website alzheimers.org.uk and dementia support line on 0333 150 3456.”
If you or a loved one would benefit from attending Singing for the Brain sessions phone Karen on 01793 483404 or email swindon@alzheimers.org.uk
You can watch the music video to Thank You For Being A Friend here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1tQrDI_neG0
Image: Swindon Singing for the Brain group