Venue: Theatre 1, Irish World Academy
Presenters: Dr Cathy McGlynn, Ann Blake and the Parkinsongs Choir
The Parkinsongs choir is an inclusive community singing group for people living with Parkinson’s disease, their family carers, and friends. Co-facilitated by Dr Cathy McGlynn and Ann Blake, the group meets for weekly singing sessions which focus on the promotion of wellbeing through song and social connection. There is a strong focus on breathwork and vocal strengthening technique, based on research that demonstrates a connection between singing and improved vocal ability in people living with Parkinson’s disease. Following a presentation on the benefits of singing for Parkinson’s disease, the choir will perform a selection of songs that reflect this.
Dr Cathy McGlynn is a music therapist based in Limerick, who facilitates the Parkinsongs singing group and the Melodies Memory dementia choir, and also runs several music therapy groups for the Alzheimer's Society of Ireland.
Ann Blake is a musician and theatre maker based in Limerick, and facilitator of the Parkinsongs singing group.