Harmonising Minds Dementia Friendly Music & Arts

In this episode of the Dementia Researcher podcast, guest host Dr Robyn Dowlen leads a fascinating exploration of the intersection of music, arts, and inclusivity in the context of dementia.This episode features a trio of remarkable guests who have been instrumental in integrating dementia-friendly initiatives into the arts. Our guests are Holly Marland, Former Churchill Fellow and Music Therapist and dedicated advocate for community music projects; Dr Andy Northcott from the University of West London, who brings an academic perspective on the impact of arts and how to make events more accessible; and Liv McLennan from Sounds Better Community Interest Company, a pioneer in using music as a bridge to memory and joy.The episode explores the inspiring stories behind our guests’ projects, ranging from festivals to operas, highlighting how they’re creating spaces where every note and performance opens doors to accessibility and understanding. Robyn, a researcher at the University of Manchester, also shares insights from her work on capturing the musical experiences of people with dementia. This episode is not just about the arts, but also about how these initiatives foster community, inclusivity, and a deeper understanding of dementia’s impact on lives. Tune in for an enlightening discussion that promises to be as informative as it is inspiring, showcasing the powerful role of arts in enhancing the lives of those living with dementia.Links mentioned in the show:Sounds Better CIC – https://soundsbettercic.org/So Many Beauties – https://somanybeauties.org/The Geller Institute of Ageing and Memory – https://www.uwl.ac.uk/research/research-centres-and-groups/geller-institute-ageing-and-memory--A transcript of this show, links and show notes and profile on all our guests are available on our website at https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk.If you prefer to watch rather than listen, you will find a video version of this podcast on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and on our website.Leave us a tip:https://dementia-researcher.captivate.fm/supportFollow us on social media:https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/ https://www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/https://www.twitter.com/demrescommunityhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dementia-researcher https://bsky.app/profile/dementiaresearcher.bsky.socialDownload and Register with our Community App:https://www.onelink.to/dementiaresearcherWe gratefully acknowledge the support of our funders: Alzheimer’s Association, Race Against Dementia, Alzheimer’s Research UK, Alzheimer’s Society, and the National Institute for Health and Care Research.The views and opinions expressed by guests in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the producers, funders, or sponsors.Subscribe to our sister show 'Dementia Researcher The Blogs':https://podfollow.com/dementia-researcher-blogs