Musical favourites in one-off concert, raising funds for dementia support

August 8, 2016

Songs from some of the world’s greatest musicals will be performed in a one-off concert to raise funds to help people with dementia and their carers in Melbourne’s inner east.

Renowned singers including Judy Sporton, Amanda Stevenson, Torquil Syme and Renn Wortley from Gilbert & Sullivan Opera Victoria will perform favourites from musicals such as Guys and Dolls, My Fair Lady and The Sound of Music, on Sunday, September 4.

The concert is a key fundraiser for Uniting AgeWell’s music therapy program, Music For David.

Music For David uses music on an iPod or MP3 player to soothe yet gently stimulate people who are agitated or withdrawn due to the effects of dementia. It not only provides a meaningful, relevant and enjoyable activity for the person with dementia, but supports carers by giving them short-term respite from the demands of their loved ones.

Music For David was established in memory of The Revered David Hodges AM, the Minister at Toorak Uniting Church until his retirement in 1983. Uniting AgeWell supported David and his partner, musician David Ross-Smith, from 2011 until his death the following year, and music played a significant role in David’s care.

The Friends of Music For David, headed by David Ross-Smith, organise a number of events each year to raise funds for the Music For David Program.

David said the money raised would allow more people to access music therapy, which has been proven to have positive effects on people with dementia.

“Music is not only beneficial for people with dementia, it also has therapeutic effects on healthy people as well,” he said.

“My hope for this concert is for people to have an enjoyable and uplifting experience and leave feeling better than they arrived.”

When: Sunday, September 4, 3pm
Where: Toorak Uniting Church, 603 Toorak Road, Toorak
Admission: $30 or $25 concession. Refreshments provided following the concert.
Bookings and enquiries: David Ross Smith 0429 907 908 or
https://www.trybooking.com/MKW... 

Photograph and interview opportunities are available.