Singing for Our Lives: Dementia-Friendly Choirs in Southeast Minnesota

By Stephanie Schumacher

Over the past few years, I’ve had the pleasure of attending several events hosted by Resounding Voices in Rochester, including a Christmas carol sing-along, summer outdoor concert, and a Beer Choir fundraiser. Since 2017, Resounding Voices Director Suzy Johnson has been working hard in Rochester to cultivate a community of joyful music making where there is “no wrong in the room,” and the ripple effects of this work have been felt throughout our area. Dementia-friendly choirs are popping up all over the state, and I want to share with you more about three of these choirs and their directors in the Southeast District: Suzy Johnson of Resounding Voices in Rochester, Diane Heaney of Lake Song Chorus in Albert Lea, and Kristin Kivell of Lifting Voices in Northfield. While Suzy’s organization has been up and running for several years, Diane has one season under her belt, and Kristin’s journey with her dementia choir is just beginning!

What prompted you to start a dementia choir, and how did you get it going?

DH: I have always had an interest in starting one of these groups. The “performance” of a Giving Voice group at the state ACDA conference and attendance at several sessions given at ACDA and Perpich Center and MacPhail really sparked my interest.

After retirement I pursued the idea with Cheryl Bergland at MacPhail in Austin and also with a community group focused on aging in Albert Lea. MacPhail was able to get a few grants to get us started and I did the leg work to sign up people in the community. We started with about 40 singers in March 2025 and had our first concert in early June. We rehearse every Thursday morning with snacks and social time at 9:30- 10 and rehearse from 10- 11:30. The space was donated and I patterned the project after the Giving Voice model. We try to have a third folks with dementia, a third care partners, and a third volunteers/helpers. Our success was so profound that even without the financial support now of MacPHail, the community has provided financial support and we were able to complete the fall session from October – end of November and will start up again March- June 2026.

KK: Lifting Voices is a new choir in Northfield for people living with a dementia diagnosis and their care partner. The first rehearsal was January 19. The Lifting Voices committee has been working on this start up since June and is very excited to welcome almost 30 singers for this first season.I first learned about the Giving Voice organization during an ACDA-MN Fall Conference session in 2023. I was inspired by the session and the power music has on the brain, especially for those living with dementia. As the brain ages, music remains, even as other skills are lost. I felt strongly that Northfield would be a great place for this kind of opportunity and was excited about the impact it could have on the community. Fast forward to January 2025, Giving Voice in the Twin Cities began an initiative to support the start up of new dementia choirs in rural Minnesota communities and Northfield was on their list. The Giving Voice staff has offered organizational support throughout the process as well as a $5,000 grant to assist with the costs of this program.

SJ: Prior to my joining the planning committee, two of our charter board members were part of a study to find out what people with dementia living in the community needed. The answer was social connection. They felt that forming a choir in Rochester (like Giving Voice in Minneapolis) would meet that need. We began our planning in the summer of 2017 and launched our chorus in April of 2018 with our first concert in early June of that year.

What are some ways that a dementia choir is different from other community choirs? What are some ways that it is the same?

DH: The focus is on joy and not polished performance. Our motto is “there is no wrong in the room”. The music needs to be somewhat familiar and not too challenging. The physical and visual aspects of the printed music often needs to be altered for simplicity. We also use word sheets for those who do not wish to look at printed music. Obviously we want to sound “good” and there are times when we fix bad sounds and tune up chords and parts, but mostly we just find the joy in singing together. The performance is just a sharing of our time together. If we happen to sound great- Yay for us!

KK: The model of the choir is different from other community choirs in that it invites the person living with dementia and their care partner to participate as a duet. This provides an opportunity for them to get out into the community together, share in the same experience and the music brings joy to their lives. The model also invites other community singers to come alongside the duets as volunteer singers, “choral champions”. This not only supports the singing of the ensemble, but the volunteers provide a broader community of friendships and support for the dementia/care partner singers. Making music together builds community.

SJ: Of course we strive for excellence and variety in the music we sing, but our goal is to enjoy the whole process of preparing for a concert and all of the social benefits that come from making music with others. We do our best to infuse fun and joy throughout the whole session. While we encourage all our singers to perform in our concerts (and most do), it is not a requirement. We have a strong emphasis on the social facet of choir, starting rehearsals with 30 minutes of food and fellowship and including interactions during our rehearsal time.

I try to keep things low stress and easygoing rather than doubling down and drilling something to perfection. I keep the pace more laid back and speak more slowly. I allow people to “sing what makes sense”, regardless of what the music on the page says. I also encourage people to sing in the range where they are most comfortable. Like Jeanie Brindley-Barnett (Founding Artistic Director of Giving Voice) did with her choirs, I remind singers “There is no wrong in the room”. Our singers need to feel free to try without fear of doing the wrong thing. We love, accept, and value all our singers where they are right now. They feel that, and it empowers them.

Can you share any anecdotes about how singing in your choir has impacted people living with dementia? How about their caregivers?

DH: So many stories. There is not a day we are together that there is not a tear shed with a touching story. We learn about the past lives of these precious souls and sometimes they enthusiastically tell us about it themselves! We listen to whatever they want to say! Care partners express joy in seeing their loved ones somewhat come “back” with the music. They love coming to something so positive they can still do together. Families that come to the concert cheer on their loved ones and thank us for providing this wonderful experience.

SJ: Most of our “duets” say that Tuesday is their favorite day of the week. A few have said their partner’s cognitive function improved with participation. All of them state they are happier and feel a sense of purpose. Many of the couples practice together with the rehearsal tracks every night which makes the experience extra special for them, bringing them together in an activity that helps them focus on something different than the day to day frustrations. Most of the care partners continue singing with RV after their partner is no longer able to attend with them. They have said that the chorus feels like family. It helps them to be with individuals who knew their loved one and were with them on the difficult journey.

Here’s a quote from someone with Alzheimer’s after his first rehearsal with us:

“At first everything the Director said seemed foreign and the music looked equally confusing, but who knew I would learn to sing the notes on key! I attribute it to the mutual support I felt in that room today: The atmosphere was so positive. At some point during the rehearsal I had a powerful emotional wave hit me. I could feel my eyes start to water. The experience allowed me to release my sadness and what I was left with could only be described as joy. Of course I want a cure, but what this choir offers is a huge step forward.”

How do you go about choosing repertoire?

DH: Usually have a general theme and some things are unison, 2 part, SAB, or even SATB – depending on the singers you have. Altering is important – no flipping back for repeats or multiple verses underneath notes, etc. Most of the rep is familiar songs that older folks would know – about 8-12 titles per session. I use the same song as an intro warm-up and the same song for ending each time.

KK: The repertoire is a balance of well known songs, music that is new and music from their young adult years. I also wanted the music to have a balance of unison, 2 pt, 3 pt and varying levels of difficulty. Having a song or two that is challenging can create a sense of self-confidence and accomplishment for all the singers. Music sparks the brain in ways that other activities do not, so having the opportunity to learn new things is healthy for everyone.

SJ: I pick a theme, ask for suggestions of songs that fit that theme, and then I do extensive research to find as many songs that are likely familiar to the singers. I have found that eight selections (mostly SAB or 3-Part Mixed and a few 2-Part) and two sing alongs work well for our programs. If I can’t find a suitable arrangement of a song I feel they would really like to work on, I arrange it myself. We sometimes sing songs that are new to all of us, but I limit that to 1-2 songs per concert so it is not too much for our singers to have to learn.

What does a typical rehearsal look like?

DH: Vocal warm-ups with stretching and physical engagement. Most of the folks cannot stand for long or even at all- so being creative with movement is good. I incorporate vocal exploration to get voices moving and stretching beyond speaking range – breath work. It all has to be fun though!! Some good warming up and then into the music for about 35 minutes. Mid way is a wiggle time or another movement time. I use recorded music they recognize for dancing or make up some crazy routine. How long has it been since you did the Hokey Pokey??? We also pause often to hear stories about how they connect with the music – I ask things like “Do any of you have a story connected to this song? What were you doing when you sang along with this one?”

KK: The priority of this group is to experience the joy of singing together as a group. The music is formatted and printed to be accessible and easy to follow. We also provide word sheets for those who may not have music notation experience. “There is no wrong in this room” is a motto Giving Voice uses in all of their rehearsals. Singers do not need to have choral experience or singing training. The emphasis is on the love of music and making a joyful noise! Each week, rehearsals start with some physical and vocal warm ups and a “greeting song”. We will sing through our repertoire and take time to talk about the music, how it inspires us, and even share stories of our lives related to the music. The rehearsal will also include a short break for singers to get up and move. This will include a song request and some fun movements to get the body engaged in music. We will create closure for each rehearsal by singing the same “closing song” each week. Keeping the routine as consistent as possible creates an environment that feels safe and predictable. Following the rehearsal the singers will have time to socialize and create community with snacks and conversation.

SJ: Here is my format for rehearsal:

1. We start by singing an arrangement of “Sing!” which has such affirming lyrics!

2. Deep breathing and short warm up

3. Rehearse 2-3 songs

4. At the halfway point of the rehearsal, we stand up and “move and groove” to a recording of upbeat music from the past, followed by “This Day in History”. We have a brief time for people to respond to a theme-based question (that arrives via email the day before) as a way to get to know one another better.

5. We rehearse another 2-3 songs

6. “Mission Possible”— Assignment of what to focus on practicing during the week.

7. Close our time together by singing “Happy Trails”

What are some of the challenges for you in this important work?

DH: It is a big commitment for folks to come every week. There are some that go to a facility to pick up their partner and haul them over, etc. Some are very frail. I have an advantage of being well known and trusted in the community and so I have a little credibility, but sometimes it is really hard to convince folks that this will work and they will have fun!

KK: Directing a choir for people with dementia is a new territory for me. I have done some dementia awareness training online and I will very much welcome the guidance of the other committee members and volunteers in the room who have experience working and/or living with dementia. My goal is make the rehearsals fun, relaxed and just enjoy the music making.

SJ: I find it challenging to find the right balance of stretching the singers without pushing too much. Getting the music ready for the singers—removing repeats, editing music (within the context of it being done legally), making rehearsal tracks and being creative to help it all seem doable is another challenge. I work very hard to balance the difficulty level of our program, plan rehearsals carefully, and trust people to learn their music during rehearsals and with the rehearsal tracks we provide.

What has been the most rewarding part for you?

DH: Seeing the joy and getting to know these wonderful humans! The community is raving about what they are hearing from participants! It has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I loved teaching high school kids but these people have my heart. They fill me with happiness and they think I’m fun and hilarious and NO discipline issues! WOW!!

SJ: It is very rewarding to work with such courageous individuals who are dealing with difficult challenges along with the amazing volunteers who assist, love, and support. It is a blessing to see them unite together and experience music and community in such a real way. I am so glad I have been able to be a part of the dementia choir movement. It really gets at the core of what music can do for all of us throughout our whole lives.

How do dementia choirs challenge common assumptions about aging or memory loss?

DH: People with dementia can still sing and participate with others in song. We have always known that music is great for brains and now we actually have scientific proof that this is so. The biggest hurdle with folks is convincing them that they can DO this- there is still a lot of denial and hiding in the shadows. I have tried really hard to connect with some in the community that I know would benefit and they are very reluctant to commit.

KK: People living with dementia struggle to engage in the community in ways that make them feel safe and understood. Dementia choirs allow people to participate in a safe and welcoming environment, and to also continue to support a healthy lifestyle alongside the disease. People living with dementia lose the ability to do many daily tasks, but the choir experience provides a space for them to discover they can through music.

SJ: We never lose the desire to be loved and needed and we as choir directors can empower people to feel this way. Also, we humans never lose the ability to learn new things (even someone with cognitive impairment) as long as there is time to prepare and practice.

It is very rewarding to see the whole choir learn new music, sing with excellence, and surprise people who come to our concerts.

What would you like the wider choral community to know about your work?

DH: This takes time and effort, but it is SOOO worth it. I could not have done this while I was working full time. You need some great helpers and volunteers. Singing for your whole life means your WHOLE life and should not end after age 60. My oldest singer is 97 and he is awesome!

SJ: We love to have new people attend our concerts, so please consider coming and inviting others too. And we need help getting the word out. The best form of advertising is to be encouraged by a friend or acquaintance to consider joining choir. Some singers need a lot of encouragement to join.

What advice would you give to someone who is looking to start a choir like yours?

DH: Get some help! I have support from MacPhail even though the money dried up, but there are people out there that will help with the musical stuff. Recruiting is the tough part. And logistics – where to rehearse, supplies, where to have the concert, handicapped accessible, visual impairments, food allergies and concerns, publicity….

KK: Be patient! It takes time to establish a committee, publicize, and educate a community about something that is a new concept for most. Attending other choir rehearsals, community senior citizen organizations, and talking to people in person has been the most effective way to share the mission of a dementia choir.

SJ: Find some likeminded people to help you, as it is a lot of work. It is wonderful to have a program coordinator/administrative assistant if you can. It is helpful to have someone who can apply for grants or help find donations to keep the cost down. Take some time to visit a dementia choir in rehearsal and concert if possible. Find other choirs who are willing to lend you music.

How can people support your organization or learn more about getting involved?

DH: Lake Song Chorus would love to add members for our March-June session. Duos living with dementia are always welcome to try this out and join us! Financial donations can be made to the Albert Lea Chamber Foundation, our fiscal agent, and sent to Diane Heaney at 413 Crescent Dr, Albert Lea, MN 56007. Email me for more information at dianehean@gmail.com

KK: Lifting Voices is open to singers in Northfield and the surrounding Northfield communities. To find out more, contact Kristin Kivell at kristinkivell@gmail.com. We are currently taking new singers, both duets and volunteers. To support Lifting Voices go to Northfield Shares and donate directly to the Lifting Voices fund. We appreciate your support!

SJ: Help us tell people about the chorus so they can find the encouragement and connection they need. Resounding Voices begins our spring session on February 2. You can also let us know if you would like to collaborate with us in any way. RV invites a community or school choir to partner with us each fall. Our guest group shares two of their own songs during our concert and then comes up to sing with us on the final two selections. We include Dementia Friends training as part of the experience and have made many valuable connections in the Rochester area. You can check out our website at www.resoundingvoices.org to see videos, find information on how to sign up as a duet or a volunteer. There is also a tab for donations to support our mission.

About the Author

Stephanie Schumacher is in her fourth season with Honors Choirs of Southeast Minnesota, where she conducts the Children’s Chorus and Treble Choir, and serves as Director of Education and Enrichment. Honors Choirs is a non-profit based in Rochester, serving 300 singers annually in grades 1-12. Prior to Honors Choirs, she spent 12 years directing high school and middle school choirs, bands, and musical theater. Stephanie is an alto section leader for Choral Arts Ensemble of Rochester, and has been singing with the choir since 2008. She is currently serving ACDA of MN as the Southeast District Chair, and she is a frequent adjudicator and guest clinician who loves working with singers of all ages. Stephanie holds a BA in Music Education from Concordia College, where she studied and sang with Dr. Rene Clausen. Stephanie lives in Zumbrota, Minnesota with her husband Aaron (also a choral director) and their two budding choristers, Kate & Will.