CLASSICAL MUSIC COLLABORATION AIMS TO SERVE THOSE WITH ALZHEIMER’S @ Utah Symphony (SLC: May 6 - 27)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 2, 2011

CONTACT: Hilarie Ashton
Public Relations Manager, Utah Symphony | Utah Opera
(801) 869-9027, hashton@usuo.org

CLASSICAL MUSIC COLLABORATION AIMS TO SERVE THOSE WITH ALZHEIMER’S

SALT LAKE CITY – Throughout the month of May, Utah Symphony | Utah Opera (USUO) will collaborate with the Alzheimer’s Association Utah Chapter for “Making Sense of Alzheimer’s Month,” providing those afflicted with Alzheimer’s disease with more access to classical music.

Several recent studies have continued to assert the positive effect that music therapy can have, specifically, on those living with AD and related dementias. USUO and the Alzheimer’s Association do not see “Making Sense of Alzheimer’s Month” as a direct form of therapy, but they hope it will give the local Alzheimer’s population a chance to enjoy the soothing and energizing aspects of music that contribute to the success of such therapeutic treatments.

As part of the collaboration, USUO will offer participants discounted and complimentary tickets for May performances to those suffering from Alzheimer’s, their families and their caregivers. The organization will also provide a tour of Abravanel Hall and small outreach performances by professional musicians associated with USUO. “Making Sense of Alzheimer’s Month” began as a similar project in early 2010, and was first offered to the community in May of last year.

Science Daily reported results from a study by the Boston University School of Medicine showing that “patients with Alzheimer's disease are better able to remember new verbal information when it is provided in the context of music even when compared to healthy, older adults.”

The Alzheimer’s Association also asserts that music can serve as therapy to those with Alzheimer’s because it stirs past memories and emotions.

“Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias affect cognitive abilities, not senses,” said Nick Zullo, Program Director at the Alzheimer’s Association Utah Chapter. “The joy of seeing and hearing professional musicians perform has a positive effect on functionality and often encourages reminiscence, conversations and endearing connections otherwise forfeited.”

Further studies regarding the disease and exposure to music have reported similar findings.

“Musical activity throughout life may serve as a challenging cognitive exercise, making your brain fitter and more capable of accommodating the challenges of aging,” said Hanna-Pladdy, lead researcher of a study conducted at Emory University, in a news release circulated on April 20, 2011.

For more information about “Making Sense of Alzheimer’s Month,” please call 801-533-NOTE (6683).


“Making Sense of Alzheimer’s Month” Event Listings


May 6 | 10 AM Finishing Touches: “Saint-Saëns’ Organ Symphony”
Utah Symphony, Abravanel Hall
Complimentary ticket for Alzheimer’s Care Recipient & one companion
$10 for other companions

May 16 | 6:30 PM Falstaff Performance Lecture
Utah Opera, Orchestra Level of Capitol Theatre
Free with Performance Ticket

May 16 | 7:30 PM Falstaff
Utah Opera, Capitol Theatre
Complimentary ticket for Alzheimer’s Care Recipient & one companion
20% off for other companions

May 24 | 2 PM Tour of Abravanel Hall
123 West South Temple
FREE

May 27 | 7:15 PM “The Rite of Spring” Pre-concert Lecture
Utah Symphony, Abravanel Hall First Tier Room
Free with performance ticket

May 27 | 8 PM “The Rite of Spring”
Utah Symphony, Abravanel Hall
Complimentary ticket for Alzheimer’s Care Recipient & one companion
20% off for other companions



Tours last approximately 30 – 45 minutes

Facilities are wheelchair assessable. Please ask for wheelchair and other assessable seating when purchasing tickets.


About the Alzheimer’s Association

The Alzheimer’s Association seeks to eliminate Alzheimer's disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected through community partnerships; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health.

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Hilarie Ashton
Public Relations Manager
801.869.9027 office
801.335.9387 cell