Greetings!
A few weeks ago I started a series to answer questions about how to use music with the seniors you serve. I started with the basics of why music improves the quality of life. (If you missed that newsletter you can find a link to it here.) This week’s edition focuses on the nitty gritty of how to get started using music.
How do I know what kind of music people will like?
Music from one’s  youth and childhood is the place to start. Ask questions or interview family members. How old are they? Count back by decades to the time when they were in their 20’s and 30’s. You can then do a simple search for popular songs by decade. My CD “Songs You Know By Heart” includes many favorites and is available for purchase on my website.
What’s a good song to start a music session with? If you are singing with an individual, start with a song they love. It can become your “Here I am!” song that cues them that music time is starting. Many people love “You Are My Sunshine”. If you are singing with a group, a good starting song is “Hail, Hail, the Gang’s All Here.” If you are using the “Songs You Know By Heart” CD I recommend starting with the first track “I’ve Got Rhythm”.
What do I do if I ask them to sing and they say no? Invite and encourage, don’t ask. Try “Let’s sing some songs!” or “It’s time to sing!” or “Let’s have some music!” Don’t give up too easily but don’t be pushy! It may be hard to see someone’s response to the music, but unless they clearly let you know they don’t like it, you can continue to sing or play a few songs.
Give singing a try! It’s free and the benefits may surprise you.
Singing with you,
Mary Sue
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