The ParkinSongsters at rehearsal wth director/conductor Jane Metcalfe.

ParkinSongsters mark World Parkinson’s Day

It’s World Parkinson’s Day on Thursday 11 April, and to mark the occasion the ParkinSongsters will be performing at Barnaby’s Lounge in the town centre, as director/conductor Jane Metcalfe explains.

World Parkinson’s Day marks the birth of the surgeon, James Parkinson, on 11 April 1755. Parkinson, who lived until December 1824, was the first person to describe symptoms of the condition that bears his name.

Parkinson’s affects one in three people in the UK. At present there is no absolute cure, but symptoms are treated by drug therapy and in some instances brain surgery that can halt progress of the condition.

Many people with Parkinson’s find relief, enjoyment and camaraderie through activities such as physical exercise and voice therapy, which includes both speech and singing. Singing in particular helps to expand the diaphragm, lungs and airways as well as exercising the facial muscles, all of which helps with swallowing, voice projection and general liveliness of expression – not forgetting the feel-good endorphins that singing releases!

Founded in 2010, the ParkinSongsters perform songs across eras, styles and moods, demonstrating the sheer joy of singing together. With a membership drawn from Hastings, Bexhill and Rother, they meet on a weekly basis, providing enjoyment not only to group members, but to those who attend their seasonal concerts. The group relies on donations to continue to offer its service to people with Parkinson’s.

Sandra, left, and Julie exchange notes.

“Every aspect of the group is beneficial,” says member Sandra Jones. “The inspiration to use the voice to its highest potential, the eclectic mix of songs, and the camaraderie with other people with Parkinson’s – a club we did not apply to join!”

The ParkinSongsters celebrate World Parkinson’s Day Thursday 11 April, 2.30-3.30pm, Barnaby’s Lounge, 46 Robertsons Street, Hastings TN34 1HL. Free entry, donations welcome.

More information on the group on their website.

Also in: Health Matters