Adult Down Syndrome Center partakes in music project

"An extraordinary experience for everyone involved" was how Park Ridge Civic Orchestra's Executive Director, Deborah Oberschelp, described the inaugural music class presented by the Orchestra at the Adult Down Syndrome Center. "It was pioneering work, and the class leaders put together a fantastic project for the participants."

Ideas for the project started to form two years ago when Deborah contacted several people in the medical and music therapy communities. Through referrals and connections, a plan was born to form a series of sessions led by a PRCO musician and a music therapist that would be engaging to participants. Another referral to the staff at the Adult Down Syndrome Center on the campus of Advocate Lutheran General in Park Ridge led to a decision where to offer the class.

A grant from the Park Ridge Community Fund turned the dream of presenting the class into a reality. Capacity was limited to eight participants, and a full class was achieved quickly as the Adult Down Syndrome Center participants signed up. The class launched in January and ran for six consecutive weeks, culminating in a musical and dramatic performance for families and friends of the class members.

Nancy Swanson, a certified music therapist and Park Ridge resident, led the class. With the assistance of Lisa Taylor, PRCO horn player, who also holds a degree in mechanical engineering, the two music professionals produced the ideas for a curriculum. What emerged was the building of a sound effects board that the class members put together piece by piece as each week went by. Each member built their own board. In addition they devised a script that read like a radio play, and with the participants playing the sound effects on their creations, the complete production came together with dramatic effect.

Music was sung and played throughout the sessions, with Mrs. Swanson's guitar and vocal skills shining through to lead the class in group songs. The final session, a performance of the radio play complete with music and sound effects, was a joy for participants and audience attendees alike.

Dr. Brian Chicoine, medical director of the Adult Down Syndrome Center, attended the performance and commented on the wealth of health benefits wrought by music. Parents and caregivers of the participants agreed, and everyone looks forward to more music-making classes at the Center.

"This was community working together at its best" said Mrs. Oberschelp. "The Adult Down Syndrome Center staff and participants, Nancy and Lisa, the Park Ridge Community Fund, and the Park Ridge Civic Orchestra all came together to make something wonderful that will bring joy for years to come."

Further information: http://www.ahchealthenews.com/2016/03/17/music-good-medicine-syndrome/