Musical Memories Choir
1694. Helen Hunter
1695. Ros Evans
Helen Hunter and Ros Evans, from Swansea, lead the ‘Musical Memories Choir’, supporting the wellbeing of people living with dementia and their carers through the power of singing.
Originally set up by Helen in 2014, prior the pandemic the choir would meet twice a week to sing together. Since the start of the Coronavirus outbreak, Ros has led virtual live choir sessions five days a week for thousands of people, as well as producing songbooks and CDs to help people continue singing along at home.
In a personal letter to Helen, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said:
“Thank you for your wonderful initiative ‘Musical Memories Choir’.
“Alongside Ros you have helped thousands of people share in the joy of music. More importantly, you have ensured that those living with dementia stay active and connected, even through the unique challenges of lockdown.”
In a personal letter to Ros, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said:
“I was inspired to learn of ‘Musical Memories Choir’ and how you and Helen have utilised the power of music to reach thousands of people.
“With your live virtual choir sessions and songbooks and CDs you have created a musical community for people living with dementia and their carers. It is a fantastic way of keeping your attendees healthy, active and entertained.”
Tonia Antoniazzi, MP for Gower, said:
“I am deeply proud of Helen Hunter and Ros Evans, and they couldn’t be more deserving recipients of the Prime Minister’s Points of Light Award.
“‘Musical Memories Choir’ have done phenomenal work during the pandemic supporting the wellbeing of people living with dementia and their carers through the power of singing.
“Their virtual live choir sessions, songbooks and CDs have been a bright spark of hope for many during the pandemic and I applaud them for their kindness and devotion.”
Helen said:
“Ros and I are delighted to receive a Points of Light award on behalf of our work running the Musical Memories Choir for people living with dementia over lockdown. Since April 2020 Ros has delivered over 300 virtual choir sessions from her home! The award really belongs to the people living with dementia and carers who have had to show such strength and resilience over these past 18 months. To them we say ‘thank you for the music’!”