Free yourself through music and let your spirit soar
Welcome
Freedom Community Music
We use music to bring people together in community venues to give you the opportunity to be with other people to participate in our sessions. The only requirement for coming along is that you enjoy music and being with other people. No prior musical ability or experience is required, and you can join in at whatever level you are comfortable with.
Our sessions are between 60 – 90 minutes in duration and take place in buildings which are wheelchair accessible and have accessible facilities. Music activities include listening to music, singing, using music for relaxation, and making music using various instruments. We provide sessions which include a mix of activities, and you are welcome to join one or more of these sessions. More details on the different sessions can be found in the session section.
Dr Charlie Chung
PhD MSc BSc ProfCert Management MRCOT
With over 30 years of experience as an occupational therapist in the UK and in the USA, Charlie has specialised in the rehabilitation of people with stroke with a particular focus on improving concentration, memory, and problem-solving skills.
Elise Gourlay
FISM GLCM ALCM
Elise has had over 30years of experience as a professional musician and educator since graduating
from the London College of Music in 1989 where violin was her principal study.
Jacqueline Chung
BSc ProfCertCBT DipCOT ProfCert ManagementMRCOT
Since qualifying in 1988 as a registered occupational therapist, Jacqueline has worked extensively with adults and older adults in NHS mental health services.
Background
Health conditions such as dementia and stroke are very common and there are many health, social care, and charity organisations that provide medical management, rehabilitation, and support for people and their families who live with these conditions. Peoples’ experiences may include reduced independence from changes in their movement and walking ability, or they may find concentrating or remembering things more challenging.
Some people may struggle following conversations with several people or conversations that are too fast. This can result in feeling isolated from a reduction in social activities. This isolation can be reduced by participating in music with other people going through similar situations.
What we use music for
• Enjoyment through listening, singing and participation in instrument playing
• Social interaction by participating in musical activities as a group
• Improving wellbeing by using different sounds, rhythms and melodies
• Stimulating concentration and memory
• Physical stimulation including breathing and movement to music