A personalised playlist can tell the story of your life through music, making playlists a great way to connect and get to know someone on a deeper level.
We work with over 2,500 Playlist for Life ‘Help Points’ around the UK: community groups supporting people living with dementia, their families and carers. As well as offering practical support and advice, Help Points often host community gatherings, drop-in sessions and fun activities.
Derbyshire Stroke and Neuro Therapy centre is a charity that supports people living with the long-term challenges of stroke, dementia, head injury and other neurological conditions.
On 20th September, to celebrate National Playlist Day, they hosted a Musical Tea: a fun-filled day of tasty treats and meaningful music.
Ann South, music therapist at Derbyshire Stroke and Neuro Therapy centre, said:
“On 20th September we strung out the bunting, put on our dancing shoes and sung to our hearts content to celebrate National Playlist Day. We had lovely day sharing our favourite songs, creating playlists for life and sharing the importance of our choices with our community. The musical tea party gave our service users and staff not only fun filled day together, but also the opportunity to share part of themselves and their identity with each other. It was a great way to get to know each other even more."
Musical Tea activities
The group sparked memories through activities like ‘name that theme tune’, ‘guess the missing lyrics’ and ‘musical bingo’. An entertainer took requests from the group, playing a full set of songs suggested by service users, creating their very own community playlist.
If your community organisation would like to host a Musical Tea, more information and free resources are available here.