The BBC Concert Orchestra is teaming up with the Alzheimer’s Society between March and June to take part in ‘Singing for the Brain’. The service has been developed over the past 10 years as a nationwide singing programme which gives those living with dementia and their carers an opportunity to socialise and communicate. Workshops are normally sung a cappella, but this year members of the BBC Concert Orchestra will join ensembles in Bristol, Hemel Hempstead, Telford, Watford and St Albans to provide live instrumental accompaniment.

‘We believe it is important to take music to the older members of the community and include them in our learning activities as much as young people, so we’re delighted that we will be working closely with those living with dementia in the five chosen regional areas,’ said BBC Concert Orchestra learning producer Laura Metcalfe.

Jeremy Hughes, chief executive of the Alzheimer’s Society, added: ‘Many people with dementia and their carers tell us that “Singing for the Brain” is the highlight of their week and the attendance of professional musicians is bound to make their experience even more enjoyable. Even when many memories are hard to retrieve, music can sometimes still be recalled – if only for a short while. The groups help people with dementia communicate, improving their mood and leaving them feeling good about themselves.’