Imagine a world where your own voice, once a natural expression of self, begins to diminish, to fade. This is a reality for many living with Parkinson’s disease, a condition that can impact vocal abilities and overall well-being. Acton resident Helena Chan faced this challenge. Diagnosed with Parkinson’s despite a healthy lifestyle, Helena not only had to accept the disease but also had to navigate the self-consciousness it created, including a suppression of her lifelong love of music due to a past negative experience with singing.
Then, Helena discovered a lifeline: the Concord Conservatory of Music’s (CCM) Singing With Parkinson’s (SWP) Chorus. “I remember the moment when I truly felt like a singer,” Helena recalls. “During a private lesson, my voice soared effortlessly. It was exhilarating!” Beyond the joy, SWP has significantly improved her voice volume, which she had noticed was diminishing due to Parkinson’s. Helena credits the qualified instruction for this progress. “SWP instructor Jay Lane follows the McClosky Technique, which relaxes the body and frees the voice.” This approach has enhanced her singing and boosted her overall well-being and confidence, aiding in managing her Parkinson’s symptoms. “It’s common to hear that the world gets smaller for Parkinson’s patients,” Helena observes. “But for me, it’s been the opposite. Singing, along with dance, tai chi, and art, has opened up new possibilities. Parkinson’s has led to new experiences, skills, creativity, and confidence.”
Helena’s experience, shared by other members, highlights how CCM is making a difference. For residents of Acton living with Parkinson’s disease, the Concord Conservatory of Music (CCM) offers a unique and uplifting program: Singing with Parkinson’s Chorus. This initiative provides a vital resource of vocal exercise, social connection, and musical joy for individuals within our local communities.
Founded in 2019 by CCM’s Kate Yoder, a Concord resident inspired by her father’s experience with Parkinson’s, the chorus addresses the impact of the disease on vocal abilities and overall well-being. It offers a crucial lifeline for individuals and their caregivers, fostering voice therapy and community through song. Under the direction of CCM faculty member Jay Lane, members engage in targeted breathing, stretching, posture, and vocal exercises – clinically proven to benefit those with Parkinson’s – within a supportive environment. No prior singing experience is required, making it accessible to all. The diverse repertoire, collaboratively chosen by the participants, promotes ownership and empowerment. Equally important is the social time in the adjacent Parlor room, fostering connection and mutual support.
As Kate Yoder explains, the program fosters self-confidence, strengthens voices, and creates a space for shared musical accomplishment. Research supports the benefits of vocal exercise for Parkinson’s, including increased voice volume and improved movement through music and rhythm. The chorus offers a joyful application of this research, leaving participants with renewed energy and purpose.
Supported by community generosity, this vital resource continues to enrich lives. To learn more or find out how to join the group, visit the Concord Conservatory of Music’s website or phone 978-369-0010. The cost is $100 for ten sessions for registrants and no cost for caregivers and family members. You can join at any point during the semester.
Sara Seng is the marketing and communications manager for Concord Conservatory of Music.
