In this episode of One Symphony, host Devin Patrick Hughes sits down with Ralph Patrick, a former pastor and Alzheimer's Association collaborator, to explore the profound impact of music on individuals living with dementia. Patrick shares his personal experiences and insights, discussing how live musical performances can engage, stimulate, and connect with those affected by this challenging disease. Discover the steps musical organizations can take to create dementia-friendly programs and learn about the cognitive benefits of music for individuals with dementia. Don't miss this thought-provoking discussion on the transformative power of music and its ability to reach the deeper, inner self beyond cognition.

Ralph Patrick, a former pastor and Alzheimer’s Association collaborator is the son of Jean who died of Alzheimer's in 2012.  Her diagnosis in 2001 led him to join the Colorado Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association.  He has presented hundreds of education classes, as well as providing consultationg services for both caregivers and those living with dementia, and has been a collaborator and presenter with Boulder Symphony creating Sensory Friendly concert series, reaching thousands in Colorado and beyond.  

00:00 Introduction to the Power of Music in Dementia Care

00:14 Early Experiences and Realizations

01:59 The Impact of Music on Dementia: Recorded vs. Live

04:31 Advancements and Community Engagement in Music Therapy

07:08 Orchestras and Ensembles: Engaging with Dementia Programs

09:56 Tailoring Music Programs for Different Stages of Dementia

16:59 The Therapeutic Benefits of Music for Dementia

18:51 The Role of Orchestras in Supporting Dementia Communities

22:10 The Deep Connection Between Music and Memory

23:28 Preventative and Therapeutic Benefits of Music

25:08 Closing Thoughts and Encouragement

Thank you for joining us on One Symphony. Thanks to Ralph Patrick for sharing his expertise and stories. You can find more info at https://www.alz.org or https://bouldersymphony.org/outreach/ or linkedin.com/in/ralph-patrick-69734215

Musical selections on this episode today include 

1. Bach - Air from Orchestral Suite no. 3 in D major BWV 1068 Performed by the Netherlands Bach Society


2. Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky – Symphony No 5 in E minor op. 64 Sergiu Celibidache conducts the Munich Philharmonic Orchestra


3. Mozart Divertimento in D Major, K. 136 "Salzburg Symphony No. 1": II. Andante · Ton Koopman conducts the Amsterdam Baroque Orchestra 


4. The Syncopated Clock · Leroy Anderson, conducted by Leroy Anderson


5. Shostakovich: Jazz Suite No. 2 - VI. Waltz II Riccardo Chailly conducts the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra 


6. Beethoven: Symphony No. 6 In F, Op. 68 -"Pastoral" – First movement --   Herbert von Karajan  conducts the Berliner Philharmonic 

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