Caregivers, health care professionals and others who work with older adults can learn the benefits of music-based activities through an online workshop presented by the Great American Songbook Foundation and its Perfect Harmony program.
The two-day 2021 Perfect Harmony Virtual Workshop is scheduled from 10 a.m. to noon March 25 and March 26. Titled “An Intro to Music for Care Partners,” the event offers an opportunity to learn about the benefits of music for older adults, connect with others in the elder-care community and master simple techniques and musical exercises that can create positive, shared experiences with loved ones or community residents.
The featured speaker is Meredith Hamons, an MT-BC, board-certified music therapist and founder of North Austin Music Therapy in Texas. She is a nationally recognized speaker and author of “Musically Engaged Seniors: 40 Session Plans and Resources for a Vibrant Music Therapy Program.” She also is the co-auther of “Music, Memory, and Meaning: How to Effectively Use Music to Connect with Aging Loved Ones.”
The presentations will take place via Zoom, and participants also will gain access to online materials, including how-to videos, activity outlines, song playlists and other resources. Cost is $15, with discounts available for groups and students. Registration and more information are available at TheSongbook.org/PHvirtual or by contacting Director of Programs Renée La Schiazza at 317-844-5832 or [email protected].
Perfect Harmony, developed by the Great American Songbook Foundation and sponsored by American Senior Communities, is a music resource that helps care partners identify appropriate generational music and activities to engage older adults in a shared music experience. Perfect Harmony offers a unique opportunity for social and musical engagement and promotes holistic well-being through music by offering monthly video resources and themed music activities that are beneficial in individual and group settings. Perfect Harmony consults with a board-certified music therapist for expert guidance and feedback on all musical resources.
