Music Matters
Our Mission
To foster research on music and the brain and to foster evidence-based music programs reflecting the best research that are sustainable and accessible to all. Music Matters seeks to create replicable models for group music-making that enhance wellness, and partners with research and medical centers and community groups to foster a choral initiative for people with Parkinson's Disease.
The Parkinsingers have experienced a range of improvements in quality of life, vocal strength, memory, and a positive spirit from being part of a purposeful community.
7-10
million people worldwide are living with Parkinson's Disease
60,000
Americans are diagnosed with Parkinson's each year
4%
of people with PD are diagnosed before the age of 50
The Choir
A professional choir director leads the Parkinsingers, in collaboration with an expert on music research in the field of movement disorders.
Our rehearsal methods are based both upon musical knowledge and upon neuroscience research, which shows how engaging with music activates and coordinates many parts of our brains. Singing in a choir can boost dopamine and endorphins, improve memory, combat depression and apathy, and provide a joyful way to improve health. Choir members learn songs that bring them strength in overcoming the challenges we face along the journey of Parkinsons disease.