Silver Lining Virtual Music Appreciation Sessions with The Forget Me Nots Choir

These weekly sessions are offered to senior community members as a recreational outlet, both educational and social. The sessions include the following elements:  

• A presentation of a particular musical topic (genre of music, artist, seasonal theme, instrument, musical organisation).  Other topics can include poetry, and the arts generally.  

• Audio and visual clips, discussion, music analysis, live performance, occasional guest including performers in that field.  

• Friendly discussion among the participants covering their knowledge/experience/anecdotes on the subject and inclusion of all participants through general questions and chat.  

• Occasional open mic singing.  

• Rotating host for variety in topics and presentations.  

These sessions proved to be a great success in 2023. On average, 75 members of their Forget-me- Not choir, their families, friends and caregivers have attended each session. One participant described the sessions as “a lifeline”.  

They provide a regular social, educational and fun creative outlet for members on various musical and other artistic topics. This can help combat social exclusion on a weekly basis and solidify relationships and networks for those with limited possibilities for social engagement. The sessions also provide a forum for enjoying music, film and poetry from various eras, with a leaning towards participants’ favourite eras and genres.