The Northern Chamber Orchestra bring musical memories to care homes across the North West

The Northern Chamber Orchestra’s Mind Music project explores the effects of live music on people living with dementia. The project work ranges from high-profile fundraising concerts to working in care homes as part of therapy, while generating crucial data for research into how music can improve and repair cognitive functions.

NCO Belong Morris Feinmann November 2021

In November 2021, musicians from the NCO (Naomi Atherton, horn, Michael Dale, viola, Paula Smart, violin & James Manson, double bass) were able to return to care homes across the North West to perform for the residents.

Angela Luckett, experience coordinator at Belong Morris Feinmann, Didsbury, said“We had a fabulous day with the Northern Chamber Orchestra. Our residents always look forward to the performances and they particularly enjoy taking part themselves – though it may seem a small gesture, being able to participate can have a great, positive impact on the wellbeing of older people and those living with dementia. We look forward to welcoming the performers back to our care village soon.’ 

NCO Belong Morris Feinmann November 2021
NCO Belong Morris Feinmann November 2021

The NCO’s Education Coordinator, Lawrence Dinh, said, “It’s absolutely wonderful to finally be back and performing to care home residents across the North West. I understand how much of a difficult time it’s been for homes that have been shielding over the past year, but with many starting to readjust to a sort of normality and allowing visitors and entertainment in again, it’s been great to be welcomed again with open arms. Our recent care home concerts have been so warmly received and enjoyed by residents of all ages – we can’t wait to return!” 

If you would like to find out more about the NCO’s Mind Music project, please visit ncorch.co.uk/mind-music. To enquire about supporting the NCO’s outreach work, please email General Manager Charlie Rowley or call 0161 247 2220.

Thank you to Stockport based software company CDL for their generous sponsorship of our Mind Music programme.