Music weaves its way through the heart of humanity, transcending barriers of age, memory, and language.

For many, it is a source of joy, solace, and connection. Nowhere is this more evident than in the first solo concert performed by our dementia choir, a transformative event that not only celebrates music but champions the resilience and vibrancy of those living with dementia and their families and care partners.

The Alchemy Chorus was founded in 2022 by Dr Christa Wood, with the help of the Rotary Club of Gerringong, and community volunteers.

Since early 2025 a new charity, Active Ageing NSW Inc, is looking after this choir, bringing together people living with and alongside dementia and community volunteers, who share the joy of music, and the power of connections through song.

The success of the choir lies in a belief that music possesses the unique power to unlock memories, foster emotional connections and bring light to even the most challenging moments of cognitive decline.

After months of practice and several performances at care homes and community centres, the choir set its sights on an ambitious goal: to headline its very own solo concert.

An event solely dedicated to showcasing the talents of our singers and musicians and to connect with our local community.

Musical director Jenny Ferguson has worked hard to adapt arrangements to suit the choristers, using vocal exercises and including choreography to provide a professional experience for our audience.

The concert serves as a showcase for our choir while making a powerful statement against the stigma that often surrounds dementia, challenging assumptions about what those living with the condition can achieve.

By taking centrestage, the choir members assert their presence, their voices, and their stories, refusing to be defined solely by diagnosis.

Participation in music-making has been shown to ease anxiety, improve mood and enhance quality of life for people with cognitive challenges.

For this ensemble, the concert will be a reaffirmation of self-worth and capability.

Research in the field of music therapy supports these observations, revealing that familiar melodies can stimulate brain regions associated with memory and emotion, even when other cognitive functions decline.

Singing in a group also nurtures social bonds, reducing isolation and reinforcing a sense of belonging.

The name ‘Alchemy’ represent the blending of various elements – our voices – to make something valuable. And we do!

Join us to share our first Solo Concert experience on Sunday (3 August), from 1.30pm to 3.30pm at the Gerringong Town Hall, 106 Fern Street.

Email Christa for more information via [email protected].