Do you or a loved one live with Parkinson's Disease?
There is compelling scientific evidence that singing helps breathing and speech-related symptoms in people with Parkinson's Disease. The Hamilton Parkinson's Chorus is a welcoming place for people to exercise speech and breathing muscles, experience music, and engage in a community. The Hamilton Parkinson's Chorus operates in association with McMaster University, and is inspired by the Toronto Parkinson's Choir, Singing with Parkinson's. No musical experience is required, and membership is entirely free. Newcomers are welcome at all rehearsals - we will provide you with a music binder and a kazoo, and a parking pass should you require parking on campus.
We meet every Wednesday from 2:30 to 3:30 pm on McMaster University Campus, starting rehearsals in-person again on Wednesday October 5th, 2022. We also have a Zoom option for those who feel more comfortable singing from home. All are welcome to attend. We meet in the Togo Salmon Hall, West Building, basement room 124. Please click the button to the right of the screen to join our mailing list.
Our meetings begin with vocal, facial, and physical warm ups, followed by a repertoire of engaging songs. We use tongue twisters to practice and improve the articulation of our speech - making it easier for other people to understand us when we speak. We employ exercises to strengthen the muscles involved in speech production, such as the tongue. We make use of Kazoo instruments to strengthen our vocal cords and create notes along the way. Rehearsal is one hour long, and we break halfway through rehearsal for snacks and socialization. No musical experience or skills are required. We're not concerned with how we sound—it's about making a sound and sharing our experiences with others. Caregivers and significant others are welcome to attend.
Subscribe to our mailing list (the button on the right of the screen) to join our mailing list. We would be honoured to have you join us.
Should you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact Zachary Levine at parkinsons.chorus.hamilton@gmail.com
The McMaster University School of the Arts:
- Dr. Andrew Mitchell
- Dr. Matthew Woolhouse
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With additional financial support from:
- Joan Nathanson