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Oh What a Beautiful Morning *

Side By Side *

A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square *

Danny Boy *

I Belong to Glasgow *

I Do Like to be Beside the Seaside *

* recorded by David Spearritt

Music therapists know that music stimulates all parts of the brain from the conscious to the unconscious. Language, emotion, humour, memory recall, story telling, enjoyment and excitement are all natural responses to music. Dementia and Alzheimers sufferers in particular respond very positively to music therapy because of music's ability to reach all functioning parts of the brain.

A recording will not evoke the same range of responses as a person singing the songs older adults love. Participating in this activity today stimulates their memories, bringing a twinkle to the eye, and a host of forgotten experiences from their first dance, their first love, travel, family, funny and memorable stories and of course the love of their children to whom they sang.

As a music therapist, Mark utilises songs that are well known to this group, and songs that have a special significance for each individual. Familiar songs, together with humour, conversation, parody, dancing and exercise, create an environment in which the individual can have fun while maintaining and even improving brain and body function.

Other family members and carers can also be involved in a music therapy program. This will improve their relationships with loved ones.

Of course, good quality live music will produce a better outcome. This is why Mark's extensive experience as a professional singer produces excellent outcomes and enhances the effect of the music on individuals.

Mark works in a variety of nursing homes in Brisbane including Blue Care, RSL, Regis, Alzheimers Association, Salvation Army and respite centres. He also provides individual sessions for elderly residents in their own homes.

Testimonials:

I get so much enjoyment and pleasure when Mark sings and plays for me. Mark is a delightful person and brightens my day when I see him.
Page, RSL Care

Mark's delightful interaction with residents is really positive and it brings out the best in them. I have never heard the residents express so much joy about an activity. The comments expressed as I sat sharing this experience were: “you make me feel alive”, “I feel as good as new”, “we really appreciate this”, “top class”. To see the smile on their faces as they sing and clap and tap to the music is evidence of the benefit music therapy can bring to the routine of everyday life at the hostel.”
Jenni, Tarry Brae Hostel

I would have no hesitation recommending Mark's music therapy as the benefit we have found has been tremendous.
Beverley, RSL Fairview

I have visited the RSL on many occasions when Mark is conducting music therapy sessions. Watching the residents enjoying themselves is so interesting – people smiling, singing, interacting with each other, requesting songs – some people I'd never heard speak before. The atmosphere is really positive. Mark has a wonderful trained voice, great musical skills and a real personal interaction that produces high levels of resident participation. Anyone would enjoy his real talent.
Susan, RSL Care

Gwen has experienced all forms of diversional therapy but these have all produced minimal response due to her limited mobility and cognitive skills.
Mark provides group sessions in the lounge where Gwen lies in her day bed but her real enjoyment is Mark's one on one sessions with her. He is able to get her to mouth lyrics, sometimes even speak them, and she beats time with the big toe of her right foot. The real thrill is to see her smile and giggle as she responds to Mark's extra chords, change of tempo or making up his own lyrics to a known melody. The body may be decaying but the love of music lives on.
Mervin, Regis Aged Care

You know Mark, what you do for me with your music and your beautiful singing – it's better than all the pills they give me. I always feel really uplifted after one of our sessions.
Beatrice, Regis Aged Care